In this monumental work, David K. Shipler, award-winning correspondent for The New-York Times, examines the intricate relationships and mutual images and stereotypes that have evolved between Arabs and Jews as they have dwelled together in Israel and in territories under Israeli control. With subtlety and compassion, he works his way inside the emotions of Arabs and Jews, presenting an intimate, incisive, and often controversial portrait of the people whose perceptions have been shaped by the forces of terrorism, war, religion, nationalism, and political conflict. Writes Shipler, “Whatever happens in war or diplomacy, whatever territory is won or lost, whatever accommodations or compromises are finally made, the future guarantees that Arabs and Jews will remain close neighbors in this weary land, entangled in each other's fears. They will not escape from one another. They will not find peace in treaties, or in victories. They will find it, if at all, by looking into each other's eyes."

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 and homemade meals, and 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, and 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 and Hilmi must decide whether to keep going, or let go.

Norman Stillman has produced a comprehensive and articulate history of the turbulent and complex relationships in the Middle East that brilliantly captures the people and the history.