Eli Sharabi's 'Kidnapped' Memoir Hits 70,000 Copies Milestone

Eli Sharabi, a survivor of Hamas captivity and author of the bestselling memoir “Kidnapped”, marked an emotional milestone today as his book surpassed 70,000 copies sold. At a special event celebrating the book’s Platinum Award held at Azrieli Mall in Givatayim, Sharabi addressed the pain of ongoing captivity for the hostages still held in Gaza.

“I had hoped Kidnapped would serve as a historical record, a memory from the past,” Sharabi said, “but unfortunately, it still speaks to the present. Even 173 days after I was released, they are still there.”

Sharabi’s book, the first published testimony by a hostage who survived captivity in Hamas tunnels following the October 7 attacks, has resonated deeply with readers across Israel. The event, organized by Steimatzky, Azrieli Givatayim, and Sela Meir Publishing, was attended by his family, industry leaders, and supporters. Israeli singer Shlomi Shabat closed the ceremony with a special performance.

“We Must Not Get Used to This Reality”

Sharabi spoke passionately about the mental toll of knowing others remain in captivity.

“Every day I think about them: what they eat, how they survive, how they cope with the constant hunger. We must not get used to this reality. We must not pretend life goes on while they’re still not home.”

U.S. Release Planned with HarperCollins

Sharabi also announced that an English edition of Kidnapped will be released in the United States by HarperCollins ahead of the second anniversary of October 7.

“I hope this book reaches the hearts of Americans and helps them understand the reality we live in,” he said. “This testimony doesn’t just aim to tell a story, it’s meant to awaken, to inspire, to drive action.”

Thanking the thousands of readers who embraced his work, Sharabi added:

“I want to thank the more than 70,000 Israelis who put their trust in me and let Kidnapped into their minds and hearts. The messages I receive every day show me how powerful this story is and how deeply the public craves meaning, context, and hope.”

He concluded with a poignant call to action:

“I never imagined I’d stand here while my fellow hostages still can’t stand beside me. No Israeli hostage should mark two years in captivity. This book was written to wake the world up. It’s time the world wakes up.”

Publishing and Industry Praise

Eyal Greenberg, CEO of Steimatzky, praised the memoir’s success:

“Beyond its commercial milestone, the book’s impact proves the power of a raw, truthful story to touch tens of thousands. This is a proud moment, and proof that even in the digital age, print is very much alive and moving.”

Shahar Tabib, CEO of Azrieli Givatayim, added:

“It’s an honor to host Eli Sharabi and to celebrate a story of courage and remembrance in a space that connects community, culture, and meaning.”

Rotem Sela, publisher at Sela Meir, echoed the sentiment:

“Eli’s spirit made this book and its impact possible. Kidnapped returned meaningful conversation to the center of Israeli public discourse. Today, we celebrate not only the sales, but the testimony and the thirst for depth it represents.”