Halima and the Scorpions: 1905

A novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the Sahara Desert, it explores themes of magic, superstition, and cultural conflicts through the journey of Halima, a beautiful dancing-girl. The narrative delves into her possession of a hedgehog's foot, purportedly blessed with miraculous properties by a renowned marabout, which ignites envy and scandal in her city of Touggourt. The story follows Halima as she displays the magical hedgehog's foot, drawing envy and ire, particularly from Ben-Abid, a singer who challenges her claim of invincibility. In a dramatic encounter, he produces scorpions to test her belief in the foot's protective powers, ultimately leading to Halima's tragic demise during a dance performance. The narrative intricately weaves the motifs of fate, pride, and the superstitions prevalent in the cultural fabric of the desert, culminating in a poignant reflection on the consequences of belief and societal expectations.