Discovering Elizabeth – Official Book Launch & Author Celebration
About this Event
About This Event
It's a celebration marking the official launch of Discovering Elizabeth, the debut novel from Palestinian-American author Alexandra Khayat Dahl—timed to coincide with the American Film Market. This is more than a book launch. It is a gathering of storytellers, industry professionals, and community supporters who believe in the power of meaningful fiction—and in the urgent need to bring underrepresented stories to the page and to the screen.
Panel Discussion featuring author Alexandra Khayat Dahl, award-winning writer and Executive Producer Aalia Lanius, and award-winning writer and director Rolla Selbak — on bringing underrepresented stories to the page and screen.
About the Book
Discovering Elizabeth is a sweeping dual-timeline historical novel inspired by the author's own great aunt—a Palestinian-American doctor, aviator, and supporter of the French Resistance.
1984, Queens: Rebellious seventeen-year-old Vicky is sent to spend the summer with her great-aunt Elizabeth, a grieving pathologist with a guarded past. As the two clash over everything from clothing to boys, Vicky slowly uncovers her Palestinian heritage—and the secrets her great-aunt has kept buried for decades.
1939, France: A brilliant young medical graduate navigates love, sexism, and survival as Vichy France darkens around her—culminating in a daring midnight escape.
When the two timelines collide, both women discover they needed each other more than they knew.
A story of legacy, sacrifice, and the bonds between women. Inspired by true events.
About Inspired Olives Media
Inspired Olives Media is an independent publisher founded to be a home for meaningful fiction—stories that cross borders and generations. Guided by four pillars—Humanity, Cultural Respect, Literary Excellence, and Representation—we center voices that have too often been treated as secondary. Discovering Elizabeth is our first release.
Why This Event Matters
For Palestinian-American readers, this is a rare opportunity to see their history and humanity reflected on the page. For everyone else, it is a window into a story largely absent from historical fiction. With the growing demand for Palestinian voices in media and film, this novel arrives at a critical moment—and this event is a step toward bringing it to the screen.
What to Expect
- Author Reading & Remarks – Alexandra Khayat Dahl shares the story behind the story
- Book Signing – Signed copies available for purchase
- Industry Networking – Connect with filmmakers, producers, and literary professionals during AFM week
- Light Refreshments – Enjoy a warm, intimate atmosphere with fellow storytellers
- Short Panel Discussion – Featuring Alexandra Khayat Dahl, alongside award-winning writers Rolla Selbak and Aalia Lanius on underrepresented voices for page and screen.
Who Should Attend
- Readers of historical and multicultural fiction
- Film and television professionals seeking compelling adaptation material
- Members of the Palestinian-American and Arab-American communities
- Book clubs and literary enthusiasts
- Anyone who believes in the power of stories to heal, connect, and represent
A story that was almost lost—now being told.
Venue is in Watermelon Books within the Holy Ground space.
Space is limited. Reserve your spot today. You can order your copy in advance and bring to be signed or you can purchase at the event. (Limited supplies available.)
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
