November 11, 1999
Dear Ms. Farmaian:
It was a distinct pleasure to have been present at your lecture at Southern Connecticut State University. It was particularly gratifying that such an inspiring presentation was given by a social worker. It served as a reminder to all of us in the audience to keep our minds and hearts open for the possibilities that out profession offers.
Our students were struck by your vigor and continued commitment to underprivileged persons across the world. Fortunately, we were able to capture your presentation on video. Already we have shown it to two classes which had been unable to attend. Having social workers to whom students can look up makes such a difference in their education.
On behalf of the faculty, please accept my thanks. We hope to see you again.
Sincerely yours,
Elbert Siegel, DSW
Professor and Chairperson
Southern Connecticut State University
Department of Social Work
September 10, 1999
Dear Satti,I am a dear friend of [ some mutual friends who ] gave me your book, "Daughters of Persia," to read. It is the most amazing book that I have ever read: so informative, but yet extremely warm and entertaining. I just never realized what Iran was all about, even a hint, really; and I am ashamed and embarrassed to admit that, but it is the truth. We Americans really are not very informed on what is really going on in the world in many areas, are we?
Well, in my own little way, I am going to at least educate my family and friends....The book is being passed from one person to the next, and everyone is totally caught with it, as I was. My mother just finished it, and cried....Now Iran is on her prayer list, and that is a serious one.
I would love to meet you some day: just to tell you in person what a wonderful human being you are. You have my respect and admiration, and I encourage you to keep up educating us Americans on Iran...It sounds like a beautiful country, and so sad. Hopefully you can come down to [ visit us ] . . .. I would cherish an evening with you. Hope you are still enjoying those grandchildren; I am sure that you are.
God's blessings,
Mary Ann V.
May 19, 1999
Dear Sattareh,Thank you so much on behalf of our P.E.O. Chapter GE for speaking to our group and guests earlier this month. You are an inspirational and very gracious speaker. You and your book, Daughter of Persia help us understand the Persian culture and appreciate the strength of your family's conviction to the principles of education and improving life for others. Therefore, I hope you'll be please to know that your appearance enabled our P.E.O. group to earn money which will go toward educational opportunities for women.
Again, thank you very much for a very enjoyable and enlightening evening.
Sincerely,
Linda Coffland,
Corresponding Secretary
Chapter GE
13 Aug. 1998
Hello!My name is Jenny, I am 15 years old and live in Olympia, Washington. I read your book, Daughter of Persia, for a school project and enjoyed every word of it. The deep culture of the Iranians is fascinating, despite the troubles they are having. I loved the part about your life in the andarun and your stories about your father. I have always wished that my heritage was more apparent in my life ...
Yours truly,
Jenny
5 Aug. 1998
Dear Sattareh!My name is Kelly ... and I just finished your book. I bought it a few years ago for my Persian husband (my boyfriend at the time) on a recommendation from a Persian woman friend... I decided to read it while on vacation last week. The book had such an impact on me that I wanted to get in touch with you and tell you!
I have never written to an author before, but I had to express how incredible I think you are. You are such an inspiration. And, what a fascinating story you tell. I couldn't put the book down. Your life has been truly amazing!
... I was in disbelief when I got to the part of the book [that described the Revolution]. What a terrifying experience. And then, having to leave your beloved Iran was gut wrenching. I was wondering if you have ever been able to return to visit.
... I had tears in my eyes many times while I was reading because what you did was so incredible. Words can't describe the emotions I felt about the work you and your students did to help the poor.
... I just had to tell you what an impact your book made on me, and to thank you for doing so much good in this crazy world of ours. If only more people had the heart that you do, the human race would be much better off.
... Thank you for being such an inspiration.
Sincerely,
Kelly
16 December 1998
Dear Sattareh:... [regarding] our most memorable visit with you this past October. Truly we were just so delighted that you took the time to visit our Campuses in Regina and Saskatoon. Our hearts were warmed by the considerable public interest in your presentations and the follow-up discussions that occurred later with our students and community members.
Your personal story, delivered in such an eloquent, calm way was truly captivating and reminded us of the roots of our profession -- caring for those that are disadvantaged and oppressed and those who are at risk. We are also reminded of our responsibilities in the larger world where the rights that we take for granted are not so easily attained.
Thank you for inspiring us. We do hope to keep in touch. Please know that you have made a mark here that will be carried on for some time in the future.
Sincerely,
Sharon McKay
Dean, Faculty of Social Work
University of Regina
13 October 1998
Dear Ms. Farman-Farmaian:.... I found your story so incredible and so interesting. It certainly gave me insights into your native country...
Thank you so much,
Marilyn D.
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