Tales from the Zirzameen (Hardcover)

~ Brian Hanson Appleton aka Rasool Aryadust (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Tales from the Zirzameen reflects on Iranian culture and society as well as the American expatriate culture there in the 1970s. The short stories relate how the author became assimilated there, and he shares his experiences leading up to the revolution and in its aftermath.

Despite the circumstances under which he left the country-including being taken hostage for a time-the author celebrates the hospitality and rich culture of the Iranian people. He was welcomed warmly into their society and came to appreciate the sincerity and kindness that characterized the people he met.

It is hoped that placing the people of Iran in greater historical context might familiarize the American people with this ancient culture, showing the human faces that lie behind the current political propaganda. The objective is peace and recognition of our common humanity.

About the Author

Brian Hanson Appleton aka Rasool Aryadust was born in Tokyo, Japan, and grew up in Greece and Italy as a self-described ''army brat.'' As an adult, he lived in Iran for five years before, during, and after the Iranian Revolution of 1979. Prior to working there, he attained a bachelor of arts degree in anthropology from George Washington University, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. He recently received his master of arts degree in ancient history from the International University of Fundamental Studies Oxford Educational Network, Saint Petersburg, Russia. He also earned his TEFOL certification from Georgetown University.

The author now resides in California with his wife, Laura, and he is the father of Luke and Alex. He is currently employed in lighting design and sales and is the author of numerous published magazine articles.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 190 pages
• Publisher: Dorrance Publishing (February 4, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1434900827
• ISBN-13: 978-1434900821
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.2 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,153,745 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Insight, March 29, 2009

By	Michelle Nickelson (Los Angeles, CA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Brian Appleton'e Tales From the Zirzameen, is a lovely personal account of his life in Iran before and during the Iranian Revolution and his enduring love for the country and it's people.

His journey gives the reader a totally different point of view on Iran. Brian's tale is at times touching, at times trying, but always enjoyable.

Great current and "vintage" photographs make the book complete. An enjoyable read.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great book -- fun read!, March 1, 2009

By	J. Afshar - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Tales from the Zirzameen is a must read for all Iranian-Americans and a fun read for everyone else. It recounts the context within which the Islamic revolution of 1979 unfolded and the drastic changes it brought about. The book is fun to read and it flows very nicely.

Amidst all the negative sentiments for Iran, it is so refreshing to see Brian Appleton's fascination and love for the Iranian culture and society. I hope many Americans will read Tales from the Zirzameen to acquire a different viewpoint through which they can get to know the generosity and compassion of the Iranian people.

I thank Brian Appleton (aka Rasool Ariadust) for his great contribution to the improvement of American-Iranian relations.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Unheard Stories, June 11, 2009

By	Paul E. Fedors "Fedorsp" (Los Angeles) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

A wisper. Sometimes the most interesting information is told in a wisper. To get the full story one must block out all of the outside noise.

Mr. Appleton does this very well in his latest book, "Tales from the Zirzameen". His honest and direct approach shares many personal moments in Iran - both before and after the revolution.

Not only will the reader learn and about the changes that have occurred in Iran but also the influence on the author as well. For me the biggest surprise how my perceptions of this country and its people changed after finishing Mr. Appleton's book.