Inside Iran: Life Under Khomeini's Regime

Anecdotal and impressionistic rather than analytical, this book effectively explores the complexities of a country that has ``receded into the impenetrability of its sixteenth century self.'' BBC journalist Simpson presents the Islamic revolution from the viewpoint of Iranian citizens; with a light touch, and with sympathy, he balances the self-righteous attitude of Iranian officials with the daily survival techniques developed by the people. He also delves into the U.S. embassy takeover, the cake-bringing visit of Robert MacFarlane and Oliver North, the Iran-Iraq war (Simpson visited the battlefront), the routine use of torture in detention centers and the phenomenon of the Basiji or volunteers for martyrdom. Simpson's frequent companion in the field was his colleague Tira Shubart, and her commentaries here, especially in regard to the women of Iran, add a special dimension. Photos. (July)