Books Like...
Funny in Farsi: A Memoir of Growing Up Iranian in America by Firoozeh Dumas is a light and amusing memoir that chronicles the author's experiences as an Iranian immigrant in the United States during the 1970s. Through a series of anecdotes, Dumas provides insights into her family's journey from Iran to Southern California, capturing the challenges and humor of adapting to a new culture while navigating the complexities of identity and belonging. The book offers a blend of cultural observations, language barriers, and familial dynamics, all narrated with a touch of humor and warmth that resonates with readers.
If you liked Funny in Farsi: A Memoir of Growing Up Iranian in America, here are the top 75 books to read next:
- #1
My California: Journeys by Great Writers is a collaboration between Angel City Press and CaliforniaAuthors.com.
All publishing proceeds benefit the California Arts Council, an agency which was forced to suspend school writing, arts education program
... - #2
"Priscilla, Elvis and Me" by Michael Edwards delves into the complex relationships between Priscilla Presley, Elvis Presley, and the author himself. Through a mix of personal anecdotes and observations, Edwards provides a raw and uncensored look at Priscilla's true feelings towards Elvis, her parenting methods, and her past relationships. The narrative also explores Edwards' own experiences, including his quick adaptation to the high life, his controversial feelings towards Lisa Marie Presley, and his reflections on his relationship with Priscilla.
Edwards' writing style is characterized by bold and candid storytelling, offering readers a glimpse into the private lives of iconic figures like Priscilla and Elvis Presley. navigates through themes of love, obsession, betrayal, and self-discovery, painting a vivid portrait of the complexities that defined the relationships within this famous trio.
- #3
'The Thread That Runs So True' by Jesse Stuart is a memoir that follows the author's journey of becoming an educator in rural Kentucky, starting in the 1920s. The book portrays thrilling incidents and passionate insights into the challenges and successes of teaching in small town school systems. Stuart's writing style is described as fresh and inventive, capturing the reader's attention with surprising and sometimes violent stories from his experiences in education.
- #4
"The Animals Came in One by One" by Buster Lloyd-Jones follows the life of a veterinarian who dedicated his life to helping animals, especially during the challenging times of World War II. depicts his struggles and triumphs in caring for abandoned and injured animals, showcasing his compassion and determination to provide them with refuge and care. Readers are taken on a journey through the vet's childhood, his career, and the impact of war on both him and the animals he loved so dearly.
The writing style of the book is praised for its ability to evoke strong emotions in readers, ranging from anger and sadness to humor and laughter. The author's love for animals shines through the pages, creating a touching narrative that highlights the kindness and resilience of both humans and animals in times of adversity.
- #5
'Tis follows Angela's Ashes in the life story of Frank McCourt, now a poor Irish American trying to make his way in New York City. The book continues to describe the life of Frank McCourt, a very poor Irish immigrant trying his best to make a life in America. McCourt's straightforward, affecting style is the big attraction in this book. As 'Tis opens, Frank is on his way to AMERICA At last But he has 'a pimply face, sore eyes and bad teeth' so not much has changed there since Angela's Ashes. McCourt's memoir pt 2 of his life in returning to america at nineteen journeying to life, both in a new country and in manhood.
When the MS Irish Oak sailed from Cork in October 1949, we expected to be in New York City in a week. Instead, after two days at sea, we were told we were going to Montreal in Canada. I told the first...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Frank McCourt ) - #6
'A Year in the Merde' by Stephen Clarke is a humorous novel following the experiences of Paul West, an Englishman working in France to set up English tea rooms. The book provides insights into French culture, work ethics, and societal norms from the perspective of a foreigner, with a mix of comedic observations and witty commentary on cultural differences. The plot revolves around Paul's misadventures, romantic escapades, and struggles to navigate life in a different country, capturing the essence of his year-long journey in Paris.
It’s also when every French project, from a new hairdo to a nuclear power station, gets under way, which is why, at 9am on the first Monday of September, I was standing a hundred yards from the Champs... - #7
'The Know-It-All: One Man's Humble Quest to Become the Smartest Person in the World' by A.J. Jacobs follows the author's humorous and insightful journey of reading the entire Encyclopedia Britannica from A to Z. Through his quirky and self-deprecating writing style, Jacobs intertwines his personal anecdotes, family stories, and reflections on knowledge and intelligence with the tidbits of information he discovers in the encyclopedia entries. Readers get to join him on his quest for wisdom and self-discovery while learning interesting trivia and enjoying his witty observations.
I know that I’m a collection of seventy-five trillion cells, which seems like an alarming amount. (Worse, since I barely ever use the Stairmaster anymore, I think I’ve added another hundred million ce... - #8
In 'Summer at Tiffany' by Marjorie Hart, readers are transported back to the summer of 1945 in New York City, where two college girls from Iowa, Marjorie and Marty, find themselves working as the first female pages on the showroom floor of Tiffany's. Set against the backdrop of the end of World War II, the book captures the innocence and excitement of youth during a time of great change and historical significance. Through vivid descriptions of the city, the glamorous store, and the events of the era, the author paints a nostalgic picture of a summer filled with adventures, celebrities, and the magic of New York City.
The writing style of 'Summer at Tiffany' is described as light, charming, and nostalgic, offering readers a breezy and entertaining read that transports them to a simpler time. The author's storytelling captures the essence of the 1940s, with detailed descriptions of the sights and sounds of the era, from the fashion and music to the historical events that shaped the summer of 1945. Through the lens of Marjorie Hart's memoir, readers get a glimpse into a bygone era filled with joy, wonder, and the timeless allure of Tiffany's.
FROM THE top deck of the bus, Marty and I were mesmerized by Fifth Avenue as we watched glamorous stores spring up like pages out of Mademoiselle. Bergdorf Goodman. Bonwit Teller. Cartier. De Pinna. S... 'To See You Again: A True Story of Love in a Time of War' by Betty Schimmel is a poignant memoir that follows Betty's life torn apart by WWII, finding solace in her soulmate Richie until her family is taken by the Nazis. The book delves into the psychological effects of the Holocaust, offering new insights from that period in history. Betty's journey of starting a new life in the USA post-war, while never forgetting Richie, is beautifully portrayed through heartfelt storytelling.
- #10
'Infidel' by Ayaan Hirsi Ali is a powerful autobiography that chronicles the extraordinary life journey of the author from her childhood in Somalia to her escape from an arranged marriage, seeking asylum in Holland, and eventually becoming a member of Parliament. Through her candid storytelling, readers are exposed to the harsh realities of growing up in a Muslim culture full of religious traditions, her struggle for survival, and her unwavering determination to expose Islam for its treatment of women. The book not only delves into Ali's personal experiences but also sheds light on broader issues of human rights, religious fundamentalism, and immigrant integration.
The writing style of 'Infidel' is captivating and thought-provoking, drawing readers into Ayaan Hirsi Ali's journey of self-discovery and advocacy for women's rights. The narrative flows seamlessly from her childhood in various countries to her transformation into a fearless activist who challenges the oppressive practices of Islam. Through her words, readers are taken on a harrowing yet inspiring exploration of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of freedom in the face of adversity.
I am sitting with my grandmother on a grass mat under the talal tree. Behind us is our house, and the branches of the talal tree are all that shields us from the sun blazing down on the white sand. “G...