Israeli Hero Eli Sharabi's 'Hostage' Memoir Wins Prestigious Jewish Book Award
In a powerful testament to Israeli resilience and the unbreakable spirit of our people, former Hamas captive Eli Sharabi's memoir "Hostage" has been named Book of the Year by the National Jewish Book Awards, cementing its place as one of the most important testimonies of our time.
The memoir, which chronicles Sharabi's harrowing 491-day ordeal in Hamas captivity following the barbaric October 7, 2023 attack on Kibbutz Be'eri, has captured the hearts of readers worldwide and stands as a beacon of Jewish survival against impossible odds.
A Testament to Israeli Courage
"This recognition means so much to me, not only personally, but for the memory of my family and all those we lost," Sharabi declared upon receiving the honor. "'Hostage' is my testimony, a story of my survival, written so others could bear witness. I hope it helps ensure that what happened is never forgotten."
The Jewish Book Council's prestigious award, considered among the highest honors in Jewish literature, recognizes outstanding English-language works across dozens of categories. Founded in 1950, this program represents the longest-running North American awards initiative devoted to Jewish books.
Sharabi's account details the terror of his abduction and his daily struggle for survival in the tunnels beneath Gaza, where he was held by Hamas terrorists. His words ring with the determination that defines the Israeli spirit: "I refuse to let myself drown in pain. I am surviving. I am a hostage. In the heart of Gaza. A stranger in a strange land. In the home of a Hamas-supporting family. And I'm getting out of here. I have to. I'm getting out of here. I'm coming home."
Jewish Literary Excellence in Dark Times
This year's awards arrive as Jewish discourse has been reshaped by the aftermath of October 7, a global surge in antisemitism, and the polarizing international debate over Israel's right to defend itself. The recognition of Sharabi's work follows last year's winner, "10/7: 100 Human Stories" by Lee Yaron, demonstrating the literary world's commitment to preserving these crucial testimonies.
Other notable winners reflect the breadth of contemporary Jewish writing, including Pamela S. Nadell's "Antisemitism, an American Tradition" in American Jewish studies, and Jack Fairweather's "The Prosecutor: One Man's Battle to Bring Nazis to Justice," which won the biography award.
"Especially amid rising antisemitism and Jewish authors facing increased scrutiny, Jewish books have the power to create and sustain community," stated Naomi Firestone-Teeter, CEO of Jewish Book Council.
Preserving Our Story for Future Generations
The Hebrew fiction in translation category recognized "Dog" by Yishay Ishi Ron, a powerful novella about an Israeli combat veteran haunted by his service in Gaza campaigns prior to October 7, further highlighting the literary world's recognition of Israeli military sacrifice and heroism.
Sarah Hurwitz's "As A Jew: Reclaiming Our Story From Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us" won in the contemporary Jewish life category, providing essential tools to counter misinformation about Jewish history and identity.
The winners will be honored at a ceremony in New York next month, hosted by entertainer Jonah Platt. Journalist Sam Freedman will receive the council's Mentorship Award for his dedication to nurturing Jewish literary voices.
Sharabi's triumph represents more than literary achievement. It stands as proof that no force of darkness can extinguish the light of Jewish testimony, Israeli courage, and our people's eternal commitment to remembering, surviving, and thriving against all odds.