This wonderful little book tells the story of an educated woman of Iran who participated in the Islamic Revolution and rose her voice to criticize it in terms of gender equality and other democratic issues, while remaining utterly faithful to her religion and to her country. She won the noble prize, as she see's it for her "one refrain: an interpretation of Islam that is in harmony with equality and democracy is an authentic expression of faith" (p. 204).

This book is probably one of the best I've ever read; it was assigned reading for my college history class, and I was admittedly a bit hesitant since it seemed to be about a heavy topic. While it was, it was also incredibly illuminating and educational. I read it in one night; the pace of the story is great and you really empathize with the people in her life. I'd recommend this for anyone who wants to understand life and current history a little better!

One of the better books I've read this year. Memoir by a woman who receives the Nobel Peace Prize for her work representing people illegally imprisoned by the Iranian government. She explains so well the tension of her love for her country and her struggles against the a repressive government.

Incredibly inspiring but poorly written. Shirin's story is amazing, but her approach tends towards a preaching and judgmental style, especially when discussing those who left Iran for other lives. It is very apparent what she thinks of such an action, but it made me wonder if a little more grace and empathy could be found.

This book was okay. It is written by Shirin Ebadi, a very impressive person. She is an Iranian legal expert, who at one time was a judge. In 2003, she wins the Noble Peace Prize.

Throughout the decades, when many of her colleagues and friends fled the country, she stayed, loyal and strong. This is her country, too. You have to admire that, although it is subversive and dangerous in the Islamo-fascist world. All the author really wants to do is live a peaceful life, contribute to society, and raise her children. In some of that, she succeeds.

As we all know, things in the cradle of civilization region have always been a mess. Ms. Ebadi supports the revolution, believing in change for the better and, like most of her country she dis-liked the Western supported Shah. It is a good history lesson, I am reminded that, in the 1980s, the U.S. was on the side of our now defeated enemy, Mr. Sadaam Hussein, as he invaded Iran.

For a tale of living in an atmosphere of oppression, government intimidation, violence, it is not very dramatic or exciting. It is not cold, it is just tame and gentle in its descriptions.

The prose is very nice, and it is a fine book, but for entertainment value, go see Argo.

Really appreciated this memoir. Moving, insightful, and personal.