Description

‘A document of real optimism.’ Guardian

A window into the new Iran in the making, demanded by its activists, artists and citizens

The 2022-3 Women, Life, Freedom protests set Iran aflame. Today, the fire still burns, as Iranians all across the country down their tools and take to the streets to demand social and economic justice: the right to a normal life.

In What Iranians Want, Arash Azizi shows us how Iranians nurtured the flame of resistance since the very inception of the Islamic Republic in 1979. From mass strikes in Kurdistan to Hijab burnings, for decades Iranians have put their lives on the line to demand a better future – an end to crushing poverty, political liberty and greater social equality.

Ayatollah Khamenei’s order is built on sand. They may crush protestors in blood today but tomorrow Iranians will rise up again and proclaim their freedom.

Publisher Review

'Deeply moving, thoughtful and thought-provoking, What Iranians Want is a homage to the Iranian people, especially women, and their struggles for life and freedom.' Azar Nafisi, author of Reading Lolita in Tehran 'This passionate book... the author lays out the situation in a cleareyed manner, and readers will leave with a deeper understanding of Iran's historical and current circumstances... In a brave, disturbing book, Azizi exposes the nature of the Iranian regime and applauds the courage of its opponents.' Kirkus Reviews 'In What Iranians Want, Arash Azizi achieves what has eluded many historians and journalists. His retelling of historical events is precise, illuminating, while his narrative style stays informal and accessible. What Iranians Want is an important achievement and a great addition to the rich library on modern Iran.' Maziar Bahari, author of Then They Came For Me 'Iran is an enigma for many people, not least because the Western media usually only scratches the surface of this multi-layered society. Arash Azizi's book is a guide for the perplexed. Not only does he deliver on the promise that the book's title suggests, but he also goes beyond that by trying to explain "why" Iranians are fighting for women's rights, freedom of expression, peace...and a "normal life". A truly absorbing and enlightening book for general readers and scholars alike!' Erfan Sabeti, editorial board member, Aasoo.org 'We're told history is written by the victors - if that's the case, the Iranian people will win out. Arash Azizi's new book is a passionate and urgent examination of the Women, Life, Freedom movement. Azizi lays out how this movement is a culmination of events - years of the Iranian people beating back and rising above their oppressors. Not only does Azizi study the root causes of the movement, but he shows people who are yearning to be who they are, who are standing firm in their ancient history, determined to save their country, even as they retain and celebrate their diversity. This is required reading.' Neda Toloui-Semnani, author of They Said They Wanted Revolution: A Memoir of My Parents