By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Eli Sharabi's memoir, "Hostage," is a harrowing and unflinching account of his 491-day captivity under Hamas following the October 7, 2023, attack on Kibbutz Be’eri. This narrative is not merely a recounting of events; it is a visceral immersion into the depths of human endurance and the indomitable will to survive.

From the outset, Sharabi's prose is stark and unembellished, reflecting the brutal reality of his experience. He spares no detail in describing the squalid conditions of the tunnels beneath Gaza, where he was confined. The reader is confronted with the stench of broken toilets, the infestation of "tiny white worms" on his toothbrush, and the relentless hunger that led him to stage a fainting episode by slicing a deep gash into his eyebrow, all in a desperate bid for more food. Such vivid descriptions are not for the faint of heart, but they are essential in conveying the full scope of his ordeal.

What sets "Hostage" apart is Sharabi's ability to find moments of humanity amidst the horror. He recounts forming bonds with fellow captives, sharing stories, and even finding fleeting pleasures, such as sneaking an orange soda before a guard could seize it. These instances serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for connection even in the most dire circumstances.

However, the memoir does not shy away from the profound loss Sharabi endured. Upon his release in February 2025, he learned of the murder of his wife and two daughters by Hamas. This revelation adds a layer of unimaginable grief to his narrative, yet Sharabi approaches it with a remarkable sense of forbearance. He writes, "His captors 'are still human beings,' bravely modeling the forbearance that our leaders often lack." This perspective challenges the reader to consider the complexities of human nature and the capacity for empathy even towards one's oppressors.

Critically, "Hostage" has been lauded for its unflinching honesty and emotional depth. Kirkus Reviews describes it as "a dauntless, moving account of a kidnapping and the horrors that followed." The Jewish Chronicle notes that while the memoir could have been a tale of misery, it instead stands as "a story of survival." Such acclaim underscores the memoir's impact and its contribution to the literature of human resilience.

In conclusion, "Hostage" is not an easy read, nor should it be. It demands the reader's full attention and emotional engagement. Sharabi's narrative is a powerful reminder of the atrocities humans can endure and the strength required to survive them. For those willing to confront the darkest aspects of human experience and emerge with a deeper understanding of resilience and hope, this memoir is essential reading.

Final Recommendation: Highly recommended!

Recommendation: Highly recommended!

written on: 10/16/2025