Few American college students who study abroad are accused of being a spy. But that’s what happens to Michael Bassin, enrolled for a semester at the American University of Sharjah in the UAE.
When Michael reveals his Jewish identity to his new classmates, they respond with shock and suspicion.
In between visiting surrounding Arab countries, Michael develops die-hard enemies and loyal allies on campus. He becomes the ambassador for the Jewish people, America, and Israel as he responds to conspiracies and threats made against him.
Nevertheless, he finds his efforts to promote understanding are not in vain. He develops genuine friendships and sees the positive effects of face-to-face interaction with people who had feared Jews.
Michael’s fight for peace doesn’t end with his university experience. He moves to Israel and joins the Israeli army as a combat Arabic translator, becoming the face of his unit during friendly and hostile interactions with Palestinians in the West Bank.
During his military service, Michael finds that person-to-person relationships provide the best path to Middle East peace.
