Kidnapped by the Taliban

By Dilip Joseph, MD with James Lund

Another book done! I usually finish a book with mixed feelings! I’m glad I made it to the end and I’m ready for something different, but often I’m sad the story has ended, or the story hasn’t ended and I want to know more.

I felt all of these things with this book.

The title aptly describes the story. AND.. I don’t think I’m ruining the plot to say that Dilip makes it home… He did write this book. I think if he was still in captivity or if he would have died, it’s safe to say this book wouldn’t have been authored and published by the main character!

That also explains this is a non-fiction book and an autobiography.

I love medicine, I love service to those in need, I’m an adrenaline junkie, so yes, this book greatly appealed to me.

I also, lately, have been realizing, that although I enjoy fiction, there are some crazy exciting things that happen in real life that can be more captivating and unbelievable than reading fiction! The stories of real people amazes me. Also to see how people survive, cope, heal and grow from real life is such a testamamt for me. I can learn by straight up instruction, but books like this seem to teach me more in a shorter period and that seem to stick.

After reading this particular book I have more of a hope and love for the people of Afghanistan. I have more compassion for the Taliban. I’m moved to pray for both. I’m sad at death, I’m sad for those who lost their lives in this story. I’m sad they didn’t know Jesus.

I do want all peoples and all nations to sing the praise of Jesus Christ. I want them to be passionate and each have their own vibrant relationship with Him. It makes me sad to see that others feel the need to force what they believe to be right and true on others.

I also walked away from this book with more of a gratefulness for the seeming security of my everyday life. The many blessings I have on a daily basis, and the wonderful family I have. I’m grateful to God for these things, and I don’t ever want to forget that.

This book wasn’t too long, was a very easy read and ended at a good time. It didn’t seem too long or drawn out. The only thing I would have liked to know is more of Dilip’s life after this event. How was his life changed in the long term. And if he ever went back or continued his involvement on the US side of the ministry.

I highly recommend this book and would love to know what you think if you read it!