Once Upon a Time in Uppsala

Shirin has just arrived from Iran to Sweden, where she and her family must acclimatize to the weather, culture, and socialization. The book offers a candid and moving account of her experience, interspersed with traditional Persian fairy tales and nostalgic memories of her grandmother. It is a remarkable, candid, and moving account of a sensitive child on the verge of adolescence transplanted from her beloved but suffering homeland into a country that offers unexpected challenges.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2023
Publisher: The Book Guild Ltd

Shirin has recently arrived in Sweden, her new home, after fleeing the war-torn country of Iran. As she and her family navigate their way through a new culture, climate, and socialization, they must also cherish and maintain their Iranian heritage.

The novel offers captivating glimpses into the lives of a diverse community of refugees, eccentrics, and dropouts. These stories are interspersed with traditional Persian fairy tales and nostalgic memories of Shirin's beloved grandmother, who provide her with solace and support in her new life.

"Once Upon a Time in Uppsala" is a remarkable, candid, and moving account of a sensitive child on the brink of adolescence who finds herself transplanted from her beloved but troubled homeland into a country that, while politically safe, presents its own unique challenges.

Irma Kurtz, the author of "My Life in Agony," "About Time," and "Agony Aunt for Cosmopolitan," praised the book, stating, "A book of an unusual charm." Jonathan Keates, a writer, biographer, novelist, and former chairman of the Venice in Peril Fund, also commended the author, describing the book as "exceptionally candid, sensitive, and lively" and an "account of an immigrants experience in an alien society."

Awais Khan, an award-winning author of "No Honour," praised the book, stating, "A moving and fascinating read about displacement, integration, solidarity, and friendship." Daphna Baram, the author of "Disenchantment," "The Guardian," and "Israel," also praised the book, calling it "a beautiful, deeply moving account of love, family, and friendship. Everyone should read this."

A.A. Chaudhuri, a best-selling author of "The Scribe," "The Abduction," "Shes Mine," and "The Loyal Friend," praised the book, stating, "A beautiful, deeply moving account of love, family, and friendship. Everyone should read this."

In conclusion, "Once Upon a Time in Uppsala" is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique perspective on the experiences of immigrants and refugees. Through the eyes of Shirin, the reader is transported to a new world, where she must adapt to unfamiliar customs, navigate social dynamics, and find her place amidst a diverse community. The book's candid and heartfelt portrayal of Shirin's journey is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Weight: 172g
Dimension: 127 x 199 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781915352880