Monday, November 29, 2021

Darius the Great is Not Okay

Adib Khorram

Darius is a high school kid in Oregon. His mom is Persian and therefore Iranian culture has been at least part of his culture. He describes himself as a 'Fractional Persian'. Like his Dad, Darius is on meds for depression, and other than the meds, really the only thing they have in common is the hour each night they spend watching an episode of Star Trek together. When the family plans a trip to Iran to visit his grandparents, Darius is simultaneously excited and nervous. Most of the book takes place in Iran, and follows the development of Darius identity, his family relationships, his illness and his friendships. I really liked this story telling and found the treatment of mental illness atypical for fiction. It was not overly dramatic, but became a part of life, which I imagine is how most people look at their mental health. I like the moderately nerdy Darius and the relatively muted tones throughout. Seems like an authentic life. 

4 stars (out of 5)

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