The Stationery Shop of Tehran - Marjan Kamali - ★★★.½

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AUTHOR: Marjan Kamali
GENRE: Historical Romance.
PUBLICATION DATE: November 28, 2019.
RATING: 3.5 stars.


On some days, one just needs a book that is not taxing, a light read, meant to delight and not stress. On such a day, a book you can easily try out would be The Stationery Shop of Tehran by Marjan Kamali. (US editions have the title as "The Stationery Shop.")

The book tells the story of two young lovers, Roya and Bahman, in the politically unstable Iran of 1953. Circumstances bring them together, fate drives them apart. What happens after their separation? Do they reunite? Does destiny give them a second chance at happiness? Does life and love always turn out the way we plan it?

The Stationery Shop of Tehran is a bittersweet story. There are many poignant moments. Is it one of the best books I've read in this genre? Not really. I could have done without some of the extra gushy-mushy stuff in between. I guess I'm too old for over-the-top romantic encounters. 

But what makes this book special is two factors:
1. The story doesn't go the typical romantic-drama way (though there are many predictable parts too.)
2. The connection between Iranian and Indian lifestyles is very strongly visible. There are many cases where you will just nod your head and go, "We do that too!" It is soul-satisfying to read how a distant country still has common beliefs with us. If we all use our common points to co-operate with each other rather than focussing on our differences, the world would be a much better place.

Pick up this book if you just want a sweet story without any adrenaline rush. As a light read after a heavy book, it's a good palate cleanser.

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