Roots in Iran: Stories of Visionary Women is a collection of stories about fifteen remarkable women with roots in Iran. Divided in two sections, the longer chapters provide an in-depth look into the lives of five trailblazers. Readers learn how Anousheh Ansari’s fascination with the galaxies led to her triumphs and travails as an entrepreneur and how Jasmin Moghbeli—riveted by the achievements of Valentina Tereshkova—became a Marine helicopter pilot and eventually a U.S. astronaut. The shorter chapters introduce readers to ten more dynamic women. Readers travel with Farnaz “Spider-Woman” Esmaeilzadeh, rock-climbing star, to find out how she got her start, and discover how Melody Ehsani, designer extraordinaire, champions women’s rights even though she didn’t end up in law school. The featured women are all transformative pioneers. Their vision of whom they wanted to be led to their self-realization. Of course, they had upsets and setbacks. They attempted difficult things and sometimes failed. They made practical and impractical decisions. They were confident, but not always. Yet they dared to set their sights on a place higher than they could see! They strived to be exceptional, and they succeeded. Each story is complemented by brilliant, full-color portraits created by female artists with roots in the Middle East. Roots in Iran also offers sidebars where readers get a glimpse into Iran’s culture and history as well as the intriguing and challenging vocations in which these women have thrived. Moreover, each chapter offers a discussion guide and writing prompts for educators to use with readers. "An uplifting work of nonfiction. Mahdavi has succeeded in penning a work that will no doubt motivate and enlighten young girls around the world. The discussion questions and writing prompts included at the end of the text can provoke essential discussions and thoughtful conversations in educational settings. Created by talented women, about talented women, and for the talented female leaders of the future - wherever they may be from - Roots in Iran is an eye-opening and inspiring combination of art and prose." Self-Publishing Review "A useful, informative, and inspiring text for preteens and teens, ROOTS IN IRAN offers a wide range of intelligent, creative, and determined female role models, plus relevant information on related topics, from chess to soccer to Nowruz celebrations, all beautifully illustrated and presented in attention-grabbing fashion." IndieReader "This book is a blueprint for how we support one another. There's the art depicting each featured woman—beautiful portraits in their own right—all designed by women with roots in the Middle East, too. Yasmine highlighted the journey of amplifying the voices, creations and ideas of folks whose roots are woven with our own as a deeply fulfilling one. It is a guide for loving our people."- WeNeedDiverseBooks