After literal MONTHS on Libby’s waitlist, I finally had the pleasure of reading “The Lion Women of Tehran.” It follows the story of Elaheh Soltani & Homa Roozbeh through decades of friendship, from the 50’s through the 80’s. The temporary riches to rags misfortune of the former, led to a friendship with the latter. Although they’re from opposite ends of the class hierarchy, they forge an unbreakable sisterhood. Giving us a glimpse of life before, during, and after the Iranian Revolution. Where Ayatollah Khomeini strips women of their rights based on distortions of the Quran, which come from the Devil. He created misogyny, those who participate in it go where they belong, to hell. There aren’t forty virgins waiting for you in heaven, from my Goddess lips to your ears. You burn in eternal flames, the same as your misguided, vitriolic predecessors. And if the current Ayatollah doesn’t pay what he owes, when a woman, me, saved their bank and prevented world war 3, he’s going to be in trouble deep. I’m gonna learn you, trust (read The Iranian War Was A Set Up). The lord giveth and the lord taketh away. I will fade you. Don’t play with me.
Dealing with classism, religion, feminism, betrayal and politics, this book is a compelling must read. A stark reminder that women’s liberation is worth fighting for. A life without freedom isn’t one of quality. Divines give everyone freewill, even Satan, the father of oppression. Who are you to take basic human rights away? Restrict female bodies?
This novel totally changed my perspective on Tali Farhadian Weinstein: what her mother must’ve endured to get her out to Tehran for a better life, what her life would’ve been if she hadn’t escaped, and what propels her to make a difference in this world (read The Jewish Divines Are A Disgrace). If Homa can forgive Elaheh, I can forgive Nike. I do. Reading is fundamental for this reason, allowing compassion, respect and understanding regarding our differences, cultural and otherwise through perspective shifts. Think for yourself, read more books. Via: Simon & Schuster