Blending travelogue, history, and sociopolitical analysis, journalist Hiro offers the general reader an introduction to Iran's politics and past. After using the Grand Bazaar of Tehran as an opening thematic window into the country, he describes the country's political history from the establishment of the Majlis (literally, "assembly") in the early 20th century, the election of populist prime minister Mohammad Mossadiq and his overthrow by the US, the installation of the brutal Shah and his eventual overthrow in the Iranian revolution of 1979, which brought Ayatollah Khomeini and other clerics to power. Remaining chapters take a more thematic approach to Iran, focusing in turn on the religious center of Qom, the role of oil in Iranian society, Iran's relations with Iraq and the United States, and Iran's women and youth. Annotation ©2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

A contemporary history of one of the Middle East's most enigmatic, rebellious and politically vital nations by the celebrated author of "Iraq: In the Eye of the Storm, and "Secrets and Lies.

Drawing on Iran's rich history, its vast oil and gas reserves, and its unique strategic importance, Hiro reveals a complex nation whose theocratic rulers are struggling to prove that Islamic democracy is a viable and enduring social system.