Exploring family, faith, society and identity as they shape young lives — a moving debut collection inspired by years of living and working in Egypt, and for two years living in Palestine during the first intifada.

From clinical child psychologist and longtime Middle East resident Dr. Mandy comes a powerful and timely collection of stories set in Egypt and Palestine.

Inside the House of Blessings and Other Stories about Egypt & Palestine is Dr. Mandy’s first published collection of short fiction — a heartfelt debut inspired by years of living and working in the region. The book offers an intimate look into the lives of teens and young adults navigating family, culture, faith, identity, and belonging. With warmth, insight, and cultural depth, Dr Mandy captures the emotional intensity of adolescence — the awkward moments, angst, quiet rebellions, and defining choices that shape who we become.

Blending storytelling with psychological understanding, this collection opens a rare window into youth experiences within the Arab world — stories deeply rooted in place, yet universally relatable.