The Persian Puzzle: The Conflict Between Iran and America

"This book explains so much about the relationship between America and Iran. It’s more understandable than anything else I have read or seen firsthand, even though I have lived in Iran. And it’s good to see the way the ‘other team’ sees things rather than just the way the Islamic Republic does. It was very interesting and very helpful to me. It goes right back to the beginning of the relationship between Iran and Britain, and it explains it in an unbiased and clever way. The problems and obstacles in these relationships are probably the biggest question in Iran and it’s definitely one of the biggest news stories. Support Five Books Five Books interviews are expensive to produce. If you're enjoying this interview, please support us by donating a small amount . And I came across a quote of an article I myself had written many years ago. It was quite funny. But that is not the reason I like the book! But that’s exactly why I liked the book. Sometimes people go to Iran for a week or two and then they say: “I know those people so well and I can tell you all about what is happening in that country.” Pollack studied Iran because it was part of his job description and not a personal interest. He only became interested later on. Which in a way makes this book more trustworthy. Some people get really passionate the minute they go there and make some friends, who take them to some parties and offer them nice food… Maybe such things would influence judgement."