He also delves into the U.S. embassy takeover, the cake-bringing visit of Robert MacFarlane and Oliver North, the Iran-Iraq war (Simpson visited the battlefront), the routine use of torture in detention centers and the phenomenon of the Basiji or volunteers for martyrdom. Simpson's frequent companion in the field was his colleague Tira Shubart, and her commentaries here, especially in regard to the women of Iran, add a special dimension. Photos. Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc. From Library JournalVeteran BBC correspondent Simpson spent months in Iran in 1979, documenting Khomeini's return after exile, and in 1986-87, covering the Iran-Iraq war. A graphic storyteller whose eye and pen readily transport readers to the battlefronts, cities, and farms of the Islamic republic, Simpson has produced a wonderful traveler's account of the Iranian people. His rendering of everyday life is facilitated by his avoiding political or diplomatic analysis. Far superior in objectivity and scope to Betty Mahmoody's Not Without My Daughter (with William Hoffer, LJ 11/1/87). Recommended for most large collections in this area. David P. Snider, Casa Grande P.L., Ariz.Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.