"This is an extraordinary book by an extraordinary author...It portrays masterfully and humanely the evolution of the complex realities of Iranian history and culture and their profound impact on contemporary Iran and its relations with the United States."
—Professor R.K. Ramazani in The Middle East Journal.

“This marvelous book promises to be the definitive account of Iran today in historical context – a fitting companion to the author’s brilliant Understanding Iraq.
—Former Senator George S. McGovern

“A great scholar's brilliant appreciation of Iranian culture and history.”
—Dr. Khodadad Farmanfarmaian, former head of the economic development authority of Iran.

“Essential reading...a study of depth and clarity.”
—Dr. Terrell Arnold, Former chairman, Department of International Studies, US National War College.

“Engrossing and penetrating. A beautifully written vision of “the other” which we desperately need.”
—William H. McNeill, former president of the American Historical Association, chairman of the History Department of the University of Chicago and winner of the National Book Award.

“William Polk brings that rare combination of both scholarship and policy experience to his fascinating study of what makes Iran tick. His sure grasp of the social, political and psychological culture of Iran is invaluable to understanding this complex land.
—Graham E. Fuller, author of The Center of the Universe: the Geopolitics of Iran, was the vice chairman of the US National Intelligence Council.

"Bill Polk's Understanding Iran is the most cogent, objective and informed view of the Iranian policy problem yet written.
—Ambassador William G. Miller, Senior Fellow, Woodrow Wilson International Center

“Like a modern-day Herodotus, William Polk casts his humane, open-minded and perceptive eye across history’s grand stage as he probes into the life and times of ancient Persians and contemporary Iranians. This wise portrait of the most misunderstood country on earth could not come at a better time.”
—Terrence Ward, author of Searching for Hassan, A Journey to the Heart of Iran

“In Understanding Iran, Bill Polk has let us see the Iranians as they see America -- full of threats, warnings and demands for unilateral concessions...Will anyone listen?”
—Seymour M. Hersh, The New Yorker magazine

“This is an easy read with a very big payoff ...If you know someone in the United States government dealing with Iran or the Middle East, give that person this book; the prospects of American policy success vis-à-vis both could go up considerably.”
—Ambassador Chas W. Freeman, Jr. , former assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs

“Understanding Iran is the latest addition to the library of Polk's sharp,smart analysis of a region that America doesn't understand well enough...He tells a story that anyone who cares about America and Iran should read."
—David Ignatius, columnnist for The Washington Post