Amr Abdel Hamid's captivating novel, Ard Zikola, transports readers to a fantastical realm where the rules of economy are radically redefined. Khaled, a young man from a humble Egyptian village, embarks on a desperate quest for fortune, only to stumble into the enigmatic Land of Zikola. Here, intellect serves as the sole currency; wealth is measured by one's wisdom, and poverty by foolishness, with dire consequences for those who run out of 'intelligence'. As Khaled navigates this treacherous society, he must race against time to understand its intricate customs and find a path back to his world before his own precious intelligence is depleted, facing the ultimate price for his missteps. This compelling fantasy explores themes of value, sacrifice, and the true cost of knowledge.