Chicken with Plums : Book Review

"Chicken with Plums" by Marjane Satrapi is a poignant and beautifully illustrated graphic novel that follows the story of Nasser Ali Khan, a talented and celebrated musician in Iran. Taking place in 1958, the narrative unfolds over the course of eight days as Nasser reaches a point of despair after his beloved tar, a traditional Iranian stringed instrument, is broken. As readers delve into Nasser's despair, they are taken on a captivating journey through his memories, dreams, and regrets.

One of the standout elements of this novel is Satrapi's mesmerizing artwork. Her illustrations add a visual dimension to the story, effectively capturing the emotions of the characters and bringing them to life. Through her art, Satrapi vividly portrays the harsh realities of life in Iran, while also depicting the cultural and traditional aspects that shape Nasser's existence. The combination of words and images creates a powerful narrative that immerses readers in Nasser's world.

The characters in "Chicken with Plums" are complex and multi-dimensional, each playing a significant role in Nasser's life. Satrapi masterfully develops their personalities, backgrounds, and relationships to Nasser, providing readers with a deeper understanding of his despair. From his unsympathetic wife to his supportive brother and enigmatic angel of death, the characters contribute to Nasser's journey towards his inevitable fate.

What sets this novel apart is its exploration of Iranian history and culture. Satrapi seamlessly weaves in historical events, such as the political upheaval in Iran during the 1950s and its impact on individuals like Nasser. These elements serve as a rich backdrop to the story, offering readers insight into the broader context in which Nasser's life unfolds.

Ultimately, "Chicken with Plums" is a touching and thought-provoking novel that delves into themes of love, loss, and the profound impact of our choices. Satrapi's storytelling expertise, coupled with her breathtaking illustrations, make this novel a captivating read that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.

What are readers saying?

"Chicken with Plums" by Marjane Satrapi is a critically acclaimed graphic novel that has garnered numerous reviews. The story follows Nasser Ali Khan, a renowned musician who, after a heated argument with his wife resulting in the destruction of his cherished tar, decides to abandon life and await his impending death.

Many reviewers found the book to be a deeply moving exploration of love, loss, and the human experience. Satrapi's unique black and white illustrations were highly praised for their ability to effectively convey the mood and intensity of the story, adding another layer of depth to the narrative.

Readers particularly admired the well-developed characters in "Chicken with Plums." Nasser Ali Khan, in particular, drew much sympathy and admiration for his complex and introspective nature. Reviewers found themselves emotionally invested in his journey and were profoundly moved by the overwhelming sense of sadness that permeated the story.

Another notable aspect of the book was its exploration of Iranian culture and history. As an Iranian author, Satrapi was able to provide insightful commentary on various aspects of the country's socio-political landscape, giving readers a unique perspective and a greater understanding of Iranian society.

However, some reviewers expressed concern over the book's narrative structure, finding it disjointed and confusing. The story jumps back and forth between different time periods and perspectives, which some readers found challenging to keep up with. While the unconventional storytelling style was praised by some for its artistic merit, it was not universally enjoyed.

ChickenWithPlums GoodreadsReads GraphicNovel