“Persepolis,” Marjane Satrapi’s graphic memoir of her childhood in Teheran during the Islamic revolution was read by our students in preparation for “Book Day,” a program dedicated to exploring all aspects of life in Iran. Guest specialists and Ramaz faculty prepared presentations on diverse and thought-provoking topics. Students chose the sessions they wanted to attend; there were 40 offerings.

As a full-school community, we listened to the unique Persian music of Galeet Dardashti who, accompanied by several members of her ensemble, “Divahn,” presented an energetic and interactive concert that included classical and traditional Hebrew melodies unique to Persia. The sophisticated harmonies were enhanced by the sounds of the tabla, cello and doumbek.  The concluding program was lead by Dr. Edith Honig who moderated a panel discussion with four professional graphic artists and authors. Kudos to Ms. Esther Nussbaum, Director of Library and Media Services, who, along with a committee of faculty members, chaired the event.

The film, “The Aryehs: A Family’s Iranian Saga,” was especially produced for Book Day and tells the story of our own Ramaz Persian families, the Aryehs and the Sterns. Their personal stories gave our students an appreciation for the many facets of Jewish life in Persia. Please visit the film page and click on "The Aryehs: A Family’s Iranian Saga" to learn about this family’s unique Persian heritage.  Special thanks to the Aryeh and Stern families for supporting the production of this film which added another special aspect to Book Day.

Additional features of the day are now posted on the site. Click here to view the Opening Assembly.

Book Day is sponsored by the “Manfred R. Lehmann Great Minds for Young Thinkers Program at Ramaz.” Special thanks to the Eisner family for their continued support of this program.