"In 1887, to get from Detroit, Michigan to Teheran, Persia was a daunting journey even for eighteen year old Louisa Jordan Merriweather." Thus begins the book, "The Fiery Furnace: Has Teheran Changed Much in 100 Years?" written by Orindan Margaret Wood Little. A book signing for this new novel will take place at the Orinda Book Store, 276 Village Square in Orinda at 4:00 p.m. on February 25.
Little says she chose this setting for her story as her grandfather started the Presbyterian Mission in Teheran and served as its head for several years. "Born in Teheran, my mother lived there until she was 12 years old. My siblings and I were intrigued by the stories she told about her life in this far away land. I also had letters my grandfather wrote. Strangely enough, he was a good friend of the Shah."
With this firsthand material, as well as hours spent in research, Little weaves a story of romance with factual information about life in the late 19th century in Persia, which is now known as Iran. Her title poses the question, "Has Teheran changed much in the last 100 years?" and she wonders what your answer will be.
Margaret Little has been writing for 20 years. Her first published book was Strawberry Stars. She says "I write because I enjoy it, and to re-write several times is even more fun." Currently she is working on "Candy and Jazz," which covers the beginning of the Jazz era. Little has lived in Orinda with her husband, Dr. Jim Little, since 1964, where they raised three sons.
Little says she chose this setting for her story as her grandfather started the Presbyterian Mission in Teheran and served as its head for several years. "Born in Teheran, my mother lived there until she was 12 years old. My siblings and I were intrigued by the stories she told about her life in this far away land. I also had letters my grandfather wrote. Strangely enough, he was a good friend of the Shah." 
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA