Hi Ana, I have recently proof-read your book Black on Black for Lonely Planet, and, on finishing the book, asked Janet Austin for your email. I write to say thank you for giving me a better understanding of Iran and its people; previous to reading your book my knowledge of Iran was not great, and what I did know was not all good. Through reading your book I was able to see the better side of Islam and feel the obvious love you have for what must be in many ways an enchanting country. I would now like to go there myself and find out first hand about Iranian tea, carpet shops and sweet rice. I shed a couple of tears at the book's end when I read your final description of Bubu, Rave and Nuri, it was so beautifully written. I hope it sells well in Australia, and that many people are able to share what you feel about this amazing place. I will make sure all my friends read it. All the best, CLAY LUCAS.

                                                                             ***

Just in! Black on Black is being reviewed in the 3/15/ issue of Booklist (important review journal for librarians and booksellers): When the shah of Iran was deposed in the late 1970s after 2,000 years of continuous government by shahs, it marked the beginning of a new era in everyday Iranian life as well as in politics. Since 1960 the Spanish author Briongos has made numerous pilgrimages to Iran. Her chief discovery is the Iranian belief in and practice of 'ketman', a traditional philosophy that allows its adherents to publicly renounce their innermost beliefs while remaining loyal to those beliefs anyway. This belief allows Iranians to ward off the dictatorial rule of their government, which is nothing if not harsh in its policies in the current era of the ayatollahs. In addition, Briongos, as a woman, is able to penetrate what is probably the most mysterious aspect of Muslim society: the role of women, which has changed significantly since the Islamic revolution. Briongos' original Spanish prose has been translated by Chris Andrews, who does an admirable job making this complex people come alive, with vivid descriptions of accepted practices. Amy Hunter. Publicity Manager Lonely Planet USA

                                                                             ***

IRAN

I was 'hassled' twice - a brilliantly low hit-rate by the standards of
surrounding countries.  And so it is through the whole of Iran. Solo women
travellers are honoured guests to be protected and welcomed. The Persians
are truly generous folk. I don't know if I saw more generosity because I
was a woman all alone, but it never failed to strike me as extraordinary.
If I asked for help with a taxi, it would be paid for. If I went to buy
something small to eat at a stall, it would be given to me. If I asked for
direction, I would be taken to where I was going. If I were at a tourist
site, somebody would come and open some door or room where others were not
allowed. I would not hesitate to tell any woman to travel there alone. It
is easier than any other country I have been to: safe, clean, interesting,
and the men are strictly hands off.

- Cheryl Rivers, Australia (Feb 00) Appearing in COMET, Lonely Planet, April 2000

***