Bah Bah: Iran dla dociekliwych

The unique illustrations of this non-fiction children’s book are subtle in their monochromatic blend of aquarelle, gouache, ink and charcoal. The imagery also captures the intricate patterns of the Persian landscape and the styles that are woven throughout many centuries of Iranian art, traditions, calligraphy and folklore. The book came about as part of a broader series entitled ‘The World for the Insatiably Inquisitive’, each title featuring a glossary of basic terms, a map and short descriptions of the most important highlights, including recipes. The central part of the book draws the reader into the most poignant moments in the nation’s history, along with the details of major holidays, its geography, calendar, climate and seasons, language, writing, religion and its major holidays and celebrations. From Isfahan, which is considered by locals to be the centre of the world, and dervishes caught up in a dancing trance, through Persian miniatures, crocus flower fields supplying the ‘red gold’ of saffron coveted the world over, to priceless jewel collections in underground bank vaults. This intriguing, scintillating story takes readers on a ride through hot deserts, tropical gardens, snow-capped peaks and bustling bazaars. In Iran, when we find something pleasing, we say ‘Bah bah’ — hence, the title!