Going to Iran

Going to Iran Feminist writer Kate Millett recounts her journey to Tehran during Iran's first International Women's Day celebration in 1979. The book chronicles her experiences with her partner Sophie Keir as they witness a crucial moment in Iranian history. The narrative follows their participation in women's protests and demonstrations during a period of intense political transformation in Iran. Millett documents the interactions between Western feminists and Iranian women's rights activists as they navigate cultural differences and shared goals. The text captures the social dynamics of a nation in transition, examining the intersection of feminism, revolution, and cultural identity. This work stands as both a personal memoir and a historical record of feminist activism during the Iranian Revolution. The book raises questions about cross-cultural feminist solidarity and the complexities of Western involvement in international women's movements. It remains relevant to discussions about global feminism and cultural understanding.

Readers note this book offers a first-hand account of Iran's 1979-1980 women's protests, though many question Millett's perspective as an outsider. Several reviews mention the value of documenting this historical moment in Iranian feminism. Readers appreciated: - Detailed observations of daily life during the revolution - Focus on Iranian women's resistance movements - Personal narrative style that makes events accessible Common criticisms: - Western-centric viewpoint that misses cultural nuances - Self-centered narration that overshadows Iranian voices - Writing style described as scattered and unfocused Ratings: Goodreads: 3.4/5 (42 ratings) Amazon: [No ratings currently available] One reader on Goodreads notes: "Important historical documentation but frustratingly centered on the author's experience rather than Iranian women." Another states: "The chaos of the writing reflects the chaos of the time, but makes it difficult to follow the key events."

Reading Lolita in Tehran by Azar Nafisi Chronicles a secret literature class for women in Tehran during the Islamic Republic, paralleling their personal struggles with the political climate in Iran.

Nine Parts of Desire by Geraldine Brooks Documents the lives of Muslim women across the Middle East through firsthand accounts and investigative reporting during periods of social change.

Persian Girls by Nahid Rachlin A memoir detailing the author's experience growing up in Iran and her navigation between traditional Persian culture and modernization.

Between Two Worlds by Roxana Saberi Records an American journalist's imprisonment in Iran's Evin Prison while exploring Iranian society and political dynamics.

Revolutionary Women of Afghanistan by Anne Brodsky Examines Afghan women's resistance movements and their fight for rights through direct testimonies and historical documentation.

🔸 Kate Millett's trip to Iran coincided with protests against the mandatory hijab law, which began just days after Ayatollah Khomeini came to power in 1979. 🔸 The book sparked controversy for its portrayal of the revolutionary government, leading to Millett being expelled from Iran before completing her planned stay. 🔸 Millett was already a prominent feminist figure before writing this book, having authored "Sexual Politics" (1970), which is considered one of the fundamental texts of second-wave feminism. 🔸 The International Women's Day celebration in Tehran that Millett attended drew approximately 20,000 women protesters, marking one of the largest feminist demonstrations in Iran's history. 🔸 The author conducted the majority of her interviews and gathered material for the book while staying in hiding with Iranian feminists after authorities began searching for her.