GenevaBookClub: Persepolis is the story of Satrapi’s unforgettable childhood and coming of age within a large and loving family in Tehran during the Islamic Revolution; of the contradictions between private life and public life in a country plagued by political upheaval; of her high school years in Vienna facing the trials of adolescence far from her family; of her homecoming—both sweet and terrible; and, finally, of her self-imposed exile from her beloved homeland. It is the chronicle of a girlhood and adolescence at once outrageous and familiar, a young life entwined with the history of her country yet filled with the universal trials and joys of growing up. Edgy, searingly observant, and candid, often heartbreaking but threaded throughout with raw humor and hard-earned wisdom—Persepolis is a stunning work from one of the most highly regarded, singularly talented graphic artists at work today. Newsweek ranked the book #5 on its list of the ten best fiction books of the decade. Originally published in French, it has been translated into several languages including English. Persepolis was nominated for Best Animated Feature at the 2007 Academy Awards.

GenevaBookClub: Watchmen is a graphic novel originally published as a limited comic series between 1986 and 1987. Set in an alternate America where super powered beings are being stripped off of both their costumes and moral duties, Watchmen looks deep into the superhero psyche. Watchmen was recognized in Time's List of the 100 Best Novels as one of the best English language novels published since 1923 and is regarded my many as one of the most significant works of 20th Century literature. If you have never read a graphic novel, this is the best place to start. The depth, complexity and originality are outstanding.