Mud

This gripping first novel portrays the lives of people who live on the margins of Israeli society. Perach, a vibrant, wild young woman, grew up in an abusive home. When she meets Gidi, a delicate orphan who lives in a run-down Tel Aviv suburb, the two become soul mates. But one evening, when they are out dancing, Perach is attacked and raped. She retaliates by killing one of her rapists, then she and Gidi flee in fear of the police.

Thus starts a flight that leads them the length of the country. After staying in the apartment of a lonely Tel Aviv bachelor, they move on to Beersheba where they find temporary shelter with Vivi, Perach`s sister. Sadly, Vivi has escaped her abusive father only to live with an abusive husband. Again, Perach and Gidi leave, this time for distant Eilat where they hide out in a seedy hotel.

During their flight, we come to know their complex personalities, and the fear and desperation they experience when their old world is shattered and they have to face up to their new existence. Finally, they part in Eilat. Perach returns to Beersheba to bury her sister, who has committed suicide. Gidi leaves Israel to start a new chapter in his life.