Between My Worlds

Between My Worlds opens the Kalima und Nói duology by own-voice author Basma Hallak. After her first photography exhibition ends in a massive online backlash, Kalima -- a young Berlin photographer of Palestinian descent -- flees to Iceland, carrying a photography book she's held onto for years and the fear of being seen and rejected again.

In the small town of Vallarheiði she meets Nói, a young man with a passion for flowers who is temporarily running his parents' restaurant. Kalima talks her way into a job there, and Nói pays her in tours of Iceland's natural wonders. As they spend more time together, a deep connection forms between them, even as Kalima navigates everyday racism and misogyny as a visibly Muslim woman far from home.

Set against Iceland's dramatic scenery, the novel blends humor and emotional weight, following Kalima's path toward self-discovery, belonging, and an unexpected new love.