21/10/2025
BOOK - The Stationery Shop of Tehran
By Marjan Kamali
There was a lot more than love story in this book.
The stark contrast in the style of upbringing of Roya and Bahman’s parents was the highlight for me. Where Bahman’s parents were controlling and full of pretense, Roya’s parents were supportive and full of hope. Bahman’s mother had imagined a life for her son and expected him to live according to that. She even threatens him with a su***de attempt. Later, she even meddles with her son’s letters to make him forget Roya.
Roya’s parents wanted them to study and do something revolutionary. They did everything emotionally and financially they could to support that. They never wanted Roya or Zari to hold themselves back. Whether it be studies, friends or even love. They were genuinely happy when Bahman asked for Roya’s hand. They waited and even prayed for Bahman when he went MIA. Even with such circumstances going on in the country, they let Roya go outside to the square to meet Bahman. They even made sure that their daughters get out of the country before the situation got worse. Roya was indeed lucky, not just in love but in family as well!
The ending was definitely emotional and heart melting. That one hour that Roya gets to spend with Bahman on his last day is so satisfying.
Nothing can come over love. Not even marriage and family. Love always wins!
