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Nick Owen Publishing exists to entertain, provoke, question and occasionally misbehave. We publish books that refuse to sit quietly in their allotted categories. Some are comic. Some are satirical. Some are strange, tender, unruly or unashamedly eccentric. Some play games with truth, memory and identity. Others bear witness to the moments when truth itself becomes fragile, dangerous or urgently necessary.
Our motto, the truth, the whole truth and anything but the truth, began as a mischievous promise. It still is. But it is also a serious editorial principle. NOP is interested in the many ways stories help us understand the world: through laughter, exaggeration, confession, poetry, testimony, memory, argument, absurdity and hope.
Come and join us for the UK Launch of ‘When the Sparrows Grow Anxious: Diaries from Tehran at War’
When the Sparrows Grow Anxious: Diaries from Tehran at War (HARD COVER)
When the Sparrows Grow Anxious: Diaries from Tehran at War is an intimate, humane and urgent record of ordinary life under bombardment.
“Profound, passionate, poetic, this important book takes us deep into the realities of daily life, in Tehran, now, in 2026. From the vivid title, When the Sparrows grow Anxious, we know we are in the hands of a thoughtful writer who walks us on a journey far beyond our often superficial knowledge of Tehran at War.
Behind the promises of posturing politicians, news reports and sound bites, here is the reality. We are invited to hear voices of people of peace caught up in this war. Despite the tragedies of deaths, injury, destruction, in this beautiful, diverse and complex country, the essential message is one of hope for peace.
As families and friends gather together in homes or outdoors, to share talk and meals, the sense of their courage is strong. The beauty of this place is celebrated alongside the documenting of almost daily attacks.
The over-arching message is of hope and prayers that peace will return. Birdsong and breaking of bread are metaphors of resilience. I think it will be one of the books that will change my life. Essential reading for these times.” Liz Fincham
Written by acclaimed Iranian author, researcher and cultural figure Ali Asghar Seidabadi, this diary-style work offers a rare human account of Tehran during war, internet disruption and uncertainty.
Re: When Sparrows are afraid by Ali Seidabadi. I live in Southampton where there is an independent bookshop, October Books. I think they would be interested in Ali’s book and I’d be happy to help if they will put on an event.
Thanks Sandra! I’ll drop you an email to discuss. Thanks for your interest!
Sorry! I got the title of Ali’s book wrong! It’s When Sparrows Grow afraid.