Darius the Great Is Not Okay

This powerful debut novel introduces readers to a protagonist who feels caught between two cultures, struggling with clinical depression while navigating the complexities of his Persian-American identity. Darius speaks better Klingon than Farsi and understands Hobbit social cues more readily than Persian ones, creating a painfully authentic portrait of a teen who never quite feels he belongs anywhere. The narrative follows his journey to Iran, where he confronts family expectations, cultural displacement, and the universal search for self-acceptance.

What makes this story resonate so deeply is its raw honesty about mental health and the beautifully rendered friendship that develops between Darius and a local boy, offering the first real connection that makes him feel seen. Khorram's writing balances heartbreaking vulnerability with moments of genuine humor, creating a narrative that never shies away from difficult truths while maintaining warmth and hope. Teen readers navigating their own identity struggles or mental health challenges will find comfort in seeing their experiences reflected with such compassion and authenticity.