Summary: Kauffman tells stories of his encounters with Iranians, their culture, and their politics, to give witness to ways walls can break down when the stories, culture, and history of others are attended to.

Comment: “Kauffman's book is much more than a travelogue. The story of his visit to Iran is interspersed with helpful background information on the country's history and culture. He examines controversial issues with thoughtfulness and an open mind, blind neither to Iran's problems nor its virtues. An American in Persia is ideal for anyone seeking not only knowledge of Iran but also a personal glimpse of its multifaceted and vibrant society.” —Laurie Blanton Pierce, Author, What Is Iran, a book commissioned by Mennonite Central Committee 

“Kauffman offers a rare and penetrating portrait of an ancient and proud land, and a people who are surprisingly friendly toward Americans. The book features gorgeous photographs that capture the dignity and grace of ordinary Iranians and depict the beauty of an unknown country. A must for all who want to build understanding and friendship with people our government would have us consider enemies.” —David Cortright, Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, University of Notre Dame

“Jesus asks us to love God, to love our neighbor, and to love our enemy. Richard’s experience in Iran is a good story of how to do all three.”  —Arli Klassen, Executive Director, Mennonite Central Committee, in the Foreword

“Americans aren’t supposed to talk to Iranians. Thank God Richard Kauffman is a Mennonite and thus open to God turning enemies into friends. This book had me transfixed—and deepened the mystery of the meaning of words like American, Iranian, and ultimately, Christian.” —Jason Byassee, Executive Director, Leadership Education, Duke Divinity

Market: Anyone interested in Iran, Christian-Muslim relations, and American-Iranian relations. 

Shelving: Iran—cross-cultural exchange; Christian-Muslim relations; American-Iranian relations; Travel. BISAC: Religion. RTM: 431 History/World; 690 Religion/Ethics

Shelving: Spirituality—Mennonite; Anabaptist-Mennonite literature; Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary. BISAC:  Religion; RTM: 690 Religion/Ethics

The Author: Richard A. Kauffman, Glen Elyn, Illinois, is senior editor and book review editor for The Christian Century. He has also served as an editor at Mennonite Publishing House and Christianity Today and was administrative vice president and instructor in theology at Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary.

Publisher: Cascadia Publishing House LLC
Copublisher: None
Publication date: March 2010
Pages: 130 with photos and notes
Format: 5.5 x 8.5" trade paper
Prices: $12.95 US/Can. ISBN 13: 978-1-931038-75-1 ISBN 10: 1-931038-75-9