Book review - Buried Alive by Roy Hallums

I have to say that this was the first book I received from the Book Sneeze site and after reading the first few pages I knew that it really wasn't my cup of tea... I found it very frank and a little too rational and graphic for my tastes so I passed it to my husband, who is probably more of a target market for this book and asked that he review it in my place, so I turn my blog over to him temporarily to share his thoughts on Buried Alive:

Buried Alive: The True Story of Kidnapping, Captivity and a Dramatic Rescue

This book is Roy Hallums’ account of his kidnapping at the hands of Iraqi insurgents and his 300 plus day psychological journey while in captivity.  While his personal account is fascinating, he also includes accounts of his family members and outlines the trails and tribulations they faced while he was held hostage.  Particularly poignant are the diary excerpts that are written by his daughter Carrie.  These diary entries illustrate the numerous and onerous challenges the family faces in regards to dealing with government and media while attempting to cope with the unknown status of their father. 

Written in a first person narrative, the text provides a grizzly account of life in captivity.  The brutality and traumatizing conditions outlined by the author provides insight into the cruelty that can be found in Iraq.  Further, throughout the book the author provides commentary on religious philosophy (particularly Islam) that is thought-provoking but presented at times in a way that some may be offensive to some.  Overall, this book is recommended for those interested in a fascinating (and at times graphic) insight into one mans’ struggle for survival in the most trying of conditions.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”