The Trouble Maker: A colourful memoir "well- seasoned" with Persian spices

Mehrdad (Mike) Payami was born in Iran (Persia as he often calls it) in 1955. He came to the UK in 1974 on a student visa with a full George Best beard and shiny long shoulder-length hair. He had £5 in the front pocket of his flared trousers and £100 in notes in his neatly stitched up back pocket. He was supposed to go back to Iran at the end of his studies as a fully qualified Civil Engineer, to serve his beloved though flawed country. However this was not his destiny and he has lived in the UK now for over 40 years. Mehrdad has a very interesting and colourful past both in Iran and in the UK. He also happens to be a good cook, loving especially traditional Persian cuisine. His family and friends have heard many of the tales he relates in this book and have tasted many of the recipes too! Encouraged by his family and friends, he has decided to share his childhood memories and early years in the UK and also some of his favourite recipes. Mehrdad’s memoir is both sad and hilarious at times, and creates a vivid and unique picture of his homeland’s rich and fascinating heritage.