Iran: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions)

This work is a bit inaccurate in its description of recent (past 200 years) Iranian political aspirations. The role of political interference is underplayed in order to leave all at the doorstep of responsibility for one's own determination. However, Iran actually represents one of those extreme cases of interference wherein deceptive practices sabotaged future of multiple generations. This must be firmly researched and understood for anyone to truly know the present character of Iran and Iranians. Also, the line about khatami's allowance for press "freedom" having not been witnessed since 1906 is an appallingly false statement. Press was fully monitored during his tenure and many punished if deviated from what was carefully structured as a seemingly open press.

Fascinating and enriched historical summary condensed into a quick easy read with eloquent and precise prose. Professor Ansari’s book will serve as a great intro to anyone who needs a crash course on Iranian history.

a good shot overview

Well-written, succinct, balanced and enjoyable to read for a Iran-history novice like me

Lack of atimeline made it very difficult to follow. Recent history guided over and zero description of current political structure? It is a total failure.

One of the best I have read on Iran. Very informative and well put together for its size. The book does a great job to get you interested to want to know more about the events it covers.

Print too small. Suggest you buy a history of Iran before reading this book.

Very poorly written, the author's distain for his own culture and people can be picked up with every turn off the pager.

Excellent introduction for anyone planning a visit to the country and wanting to do more reading about Iran. There are for the western mind seeming contradictions and paradoxes about Iran which provide a challenge when trying to get an understanding of the country and its people. A country which is thoroughly modern and at the same time very traditional. This book is an enlightening introduction, not simplistic but helpful in showing the range of themes: history, religion, politics and so on which make the country so fascinating. In particular its resilience in meeting challenges from the past and present and retaining its special identity. Highly recommended

Arrived on time. It was like described.

Good service and good book.

good

A concise and well rounded background to Iran's history, very helpful in my research for a novel I am working on.