Yasmine Mahdavi

Roots in Iran: Stories of Visionary Women Yasmine Mahdavi

Roots in Iran: Stories of Visionary Women is a collection of stories about fifteen remarkable women with roots in Iran. Divided into two sections, the longer chapters provide an in-depth look into the lives of five trailblazers. Readers learn how Anousheh Ansari's fascination with the galaxies led to her triumphs and travails as an entrepreneur and how Jasmin Moghbeli-riveted by the achievements of Valentina Tereshkova-became a Marine helicopter pilot and eventually a U. S. astronaut. The shorter chapters introduce readers to ten more dynamic women. Readers travel with Farnaz "Spider-Woman" Esmaeilzadeh, rock-climbing star, to find out how she got her start, and discover how Melody Ehsani, designer extraordinaire, champions women's rights even though she didn't end up in law school. The featured women are all transformative pioneers.




Their vision of who they wanted to be led to their self-realization. Of course, they had upsets and setbacks. They attempted difficult things and sometimes failed. They made practical and impractical decisions. They were confident, but not always. Yet they dared to set their sights on a place higher than they could see! They strived to be exceptional, and they succeeded.




Each story is complemented by brilliant, full-color portraits created by female artists with roots in the Middle East.




Roots in Iran also offers sidebars where readers get a glimpse into Iran's culture and history as well as the intriguing and challenging vocations in which these women have thrived. Moreover, each chapter offers a discussion guide and writing prompts for educators to use with readers.