"Between Two Worlds" by Roxana Saberi

For six years American Roxana Saberi, who is of Iranian and Japanese descent, lived in Iran working as a reporter. When her press pass was taken away from her she decided to stay on and write a book about the everyday lives of Iranians. But then on January 31, 2009, four intelligence agents forced her from her home and detained her in the notorious Evin prison on charges of espionage. For several days she was held in solitary confinement and eventually was coerced into making false statements about spying for the United States.

She spent weeks locked up in the prison, her family and friends not knowing where she was. She was finally granted access to them, and just when she thought her freedom was near she was convicted in a sham trial and sentenced to eight years in prison. Her story made headlines around the world, and as international pressure grew, she was finally released on appeal on May 11, 2009.

Between Two Worlds is an incredible story of resilience and determination. It is also an eye-opening story of Iranian society from the inside. Saberi does an excellent job of weaving the story of Iranian citizens into her own story. Many books have been written of experiences in the harsh and brutal Evin prison and this book is among the best. Saberi is able to bring both an Iranian and Western perspective to the book.

One of the best features of this book is that among its dramatic tale it is respectful of the Iranian people. It shows the difference between the hard-liners in the government and the average citizen of Iran. Saberi also presents the stories of many women she met in the prison who are fighting to bring about change in Iran.

Between Two Worlds is an honest portrait of Iran and the clash between politics and religion. It gives a voice to the Iranian people, something that the government often tries to prevent the West from hearing. It is also an incredible inside look at Evin prison, where inmates are detained on false charges and denied the most basic of human rights. Saberi's story and the strength and wisdom she gained while imprisoned will touch and inspire every reader.