A chance encounter in New York brings two strangers together Liat is an idealistic translation student Hilmi a talented young painter Together they explore the city share fantasies jokes & homemade meals & fall in love There is only one problem Liat is from Israel Hilmi from Palestine Keeping their deepening relationship secret the two lovers build an intimate universe for two in this city far from home But outside reality can only be kept at bay for so long After a tempestuous visit from Hilmi's brother cracks begin to form in the relationship & their points of difference
- Liat's military service Hilmi's hopes for Palestine's future
- threaten to overwhelm their shared present When they return separately to their divided countries Liat & Hilmi must decide whether to keep going or let go A prizewinning bestseller but banned in Israeli schools for its frank & tender depiction of a taboo relationship this is the deeply affecting story of two people trying to bridge one of the most deeply riven borders in the world