"She tried to remember the exact sensation of Jacksons kiss, but it was dissolving in her mind."

Liyana is fourteen and just experienced her first kiss by Jackson. When her father decides to move the family from St. Louis to his native Jerusalem. She is not happy with the decision. In Jerusalem, Liyana is faced with many challenges: a forbidden relationship, a family she does not know in an unfamiliar place.

Nye's classic tale is an old world meets new world story. Because she does not know Arabic, American born Liyana has a hard time communicating with relatives.

"Remember, Sitti comes from a different world.She may seem strange to you. You won't understand her. Ill translate whatever you need, since she knows absolutely nothing in English."

Told in extremely descriptive and captivating language, Nye's tale offers young readers unique cultural twists. She effectively highlights Liyana's transition between her more liberal American lifestyle to a more traditional Jerusalem setting. From her new school to her reflection on religion, Liyana faces her adjustments and challenges with remarkable vigor.

"Liyana's family believed in GOD and goodness and hope and positive thinking and praying."

Throughout the text, Nye presents Arabic terms that make this tale truly authentic.

"She walked the streets of old Jerusalem muttering her new words in Arabic, sprinkling them down into cracks between stones. Ana tayyib---I'm fine

Wa alaykum essalaam,-and upon you peace."

Habibi would be a wonderful addition to high school library collections.