These are the very real stories of how and why five refugees escaped from genocide in south Sudan and Darfur, made their way through Egypt and smuggled into Israel, the only country their Islamic government prohibited them from entering. In desperation they fled across the border anyway, with nothing but the clothes on their backs. No food No money. No papers. No possessions. Just thankful to be alive.

After years of running a hostel in Eilat, the author and her husband felt the need for renewal. In their fifties they decided to walk the 600-mile Israel National Trail. Judith describes their 42-day trek through spectacular scenery, Arab towns and villages, past Jewish, Muslim, Druze, and Christian holy sites. They discover sights seldom seen by tourists, physical challenges and spiritual test, cultural encounters and historical insights, and lessons about peace, faith, and endurance.