Eli Sharabi spent 491 days in Hamas captivity, surviving the tunnels of Gaza only to return home to devastating news: his wife and daughters had been murdered on Oct. 7. His story of survival, grief and faith has already broken publishing records in Israel. Now, St. Louis will be among the first American cities to hear it firsthand. On Oct. 9, Sharabi will open the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival at the Edison Gymnasium, sharing passages from his memoir “Hostage,” and offering our community a rare chance to witness history, resilience and hope in person.
A story that became history
Sharabi’s memoir, “Hostage,” is the first by a survivor of Hamas captivity. Already an instant bestseller in Israel, it broke records as the fastest-selling book in the nation’s history. In stark prose, he recounts his abduction on Oct. 7, 2023, his imprisonment in Gaza’s tunnels and the unexpected bonds of faith and friendship that carried him through. Now translated into English, the book’s release coincides with Sharabi’s St. Louis appearance, giving American audiences a rare chance to hear from him directly.
A festival reimagined
The event marks the start of a new season-long approach for the Jewish Book Festival. Instead of its traditional 10-day run, the Festival now stretches from October through February. Organizers say this shift allows the community to hear from more authors, thinkers and creators throughout the year, while still anchoring the calendar with the Festival’s signature week in November.
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“This expansion helps us bring high-profile voices like Eli Sharabi to St. Louis and connect our audiences to timely, meaningful conversations,” said Rabbi Brad Horwitz, chief Jewish engagement officer at the JCC.
Tickets and community connection
General admission is $36, with free entry for students and children under 18. A portion of proceeds will benefit Achim L’achim – Brothers for Life, a nonprofit supporting injured Israeli veterans.
Presented by St. Louis Friends of Israel, the evening promises more than a book talk. It’s a chance for the community to gather, bear witness and reflect on resilience in the face of trauma.
Tickets are available now through the festival’s website and Showpass. With demand expected to be high for this rare U.S. appearance, organizers encourage early purchase. All-access passes, including a discounted version for those under 40, are also available for the full festival season.
