Zar was raised in an ultra-Orthodox neighborhood in Jerusalem. But he breaks away from this insular world to pursue his dream of playing soccer professionally. Egel, a kibbutznik, and Hajji, a Muslim, are young Israelis from very different backgrounds who share with Zar a passion for soccer. Their destinies intertwine as they become teammates on The Israel National Football Team, representing their tiny country in the World Cup. From the ancient stone walls of Jerusalem's Old City to a kibbutz set in an oasis of orange orchards, an Arab Israeli village in The Galilee and an Israeli army base in the Negev Desert, First Among Nations captures the sights, sounds, tumultuous history and modern realities of Israel. This inspiring novel will open your eyes and warm your heart.