when I requested this I only really saw it was a YA with queer and jew rep which I have wanted more of without looking more into the content which is my fault. As someone neither Jewish nor Palestinian I am uncomfortable being on of the first reviewers for this book and putting in my input on the content. All I feel comfortable speaking on is the writing, which wasnt for me. It is written very basic and the main character didnt interest me. Due to the writing style not grabbing me and the content I ended up DNFing

I really really loved this one! I did not see that little bit of a twist coming!
Tally and Max, such great characters! I also liked all the side characters too; Sammy, Saron, David, Joshua, & Gabriel. I liked the look into each of their lives and how they connected with Tally and Max while in Israel.
I liked the look at what it means to be a Jew and how Jews are told crazy things all the time about how they aren't Jewish. I loved this because I myself am Jewish and have been discriminated against.
I liked the look at anxiety and at sexuality and figuring what that means to you.
I have been to Israel and I felt like I was there again while reading this book! Neil does a great job of describing and connecting you with these beautiful places.
I am excited that this book will be out in the world soon! It is so needed!

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!

This is a sweet story of self discovery taking place on a high school trip to Israel. I hope that readers will give it a chance; it should have broad appeal to middle grade students.

Youth group Israel trips are such a huge part of the high school/college experience for so many American Jews, myself included. I can't believe I've never read a novel taking place during one! This captures the experience perfectly -- the travel, the sights, the relationships. It was the perfect setting for Tally's self discovery journey. The author brings up the contested history and current issues in Israel in a contextually appropriate way. Highly recommended for grades 8 & up.