From the author of Still Life with Insects comes a contemporary tale of an unlikely connection between an American historian and an Armenian theater critic on the streets of Cairo. While in Cairo, Ib, an American historian and translator crosses paths with an Armenian-born theater critic and drama teacher, Gamal-Leon. Gamal-Leon begins to trace Ib's every step, playing practical jokes on him in an effort to challenge Ib's easygoing view on life.

Examining the balance between contemporary Egypt and western culture, Kiteley shares a tale of two strangers roaming through the night as he takes readers on an entrancing trip of forgiveness as Ib learns to swim against the tide.