Plestia Alaqad is a Palestinian writer and storyteller whose work centers the experiences of those living under occupation. Her debut novel, "The Eyes of Gaza," draws from her intimate knowledge of life in Gaza to craft a powerful narrative of resilience and survival. Through her writing, Alaqad gives voice to the often-overlooked human stories behind headlines, blending personal testimony with literary craft. Her work has been recognized for its emotional depth and unflinching honesty in depicting the realities of conflict. Alaqad continues to write and advocate for Palestinian voices in contemporary literature.