"Enemy Combatant" by Moazzam Begg provides a captivating and thought-provoking glimpse into the author's harrowing experience as a detainee in Guantanamo Bay. With raw honesty, Begg takes readers on a journey through his background, his capture, and the physical and psychological torment he endured while in detention.
The book begins by delving into Begg's upbringing in the UK, offering insight into his Islamic faith and his unwavering commitment to helping those in need. As the narrative unfolds, Begg's involvement in humanitarian work leads him to war-torn regions, ultimately culminating in his capture by the US military. Begg vividly describes the various detention centers he was held in, most notably Guantanamo Bay, exposing the cruel and inhumane treatment suffered by him and his fellow detainees.
What separates "Enemy Combatant" from other accounts is Begg's ability to humanize both himself and his captors. He deftly navigates the complexities of identity, faith, and extremism, challenging readers to confront their preconceived notions and biases. Through his heartfelt storytelling, Begg draws attention to the true human cost of the War on Terror, shedding light on the devastating consequences of such a global conflict.
Available on Audible
Begg's writing style is engaging and accessible, effortlessly immersing readers in the confined spaces of Guantanamo Bay and other detention facilities. It is impossible to remain unaffected while reading his account, as a rollercoaster of emotions ranging from anger and outrage to compassion and empathy washes over the reader. Begg's ability to evoke such strong emotions through his words is a testament to his storytelling prowess.
"Enemy Combatant" is a powerful and eye-opening memoir that serves as a stark reminder of the importance of civil liberties and the dehumanizing consequences that arise when they are compromised. Moazzam Begg's personal account offers valuable insights into the complexities of the War on Terror and the profound impact it has on individuals like himself. This book is an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of recent history and the human toll of global conflicts.
What are readers saying?
"Enemy Combatant" by Moazzam Begg is a thought-provoking book that received a mixed response from readers. Overall, it garnered an average rating of 3.67 out of 5 stars. Begg's firsthand account of his experiences as a detainee in Guantanamo Bay was praised by some readers. They found his storytelling engaging and appreciated his ability to shed light on the harsh realities of being labeled an enemy combatant. Begg's insights into the injustices and human rights abuses he faced resonated with these readers, who praised the book for creating awareness about detainee mistreatment.
However, some reviewers felt that the book was biased and lacked a balanced perspective. They believed that Begg portrayed himself as a victim without acknowledging any potential wrongdoing on his part. These readers criticized the book for its lack of depth and its sole focus on Begg's personal experiences, which they believed limited its overall impact.
The writing style of "Enemy Combatant" was another point of contention among readers. While some found it well-written and engaging, noting that Begg's voice came through authentically, others struggled with the narrative structure. They felt that the book lacked cohesiveness, with some chapters being more interesting and well-executed than others.
Despite these differing opinions, many reviewers appreciated the unique perspective that Begg brought to the table. They recognized the importance of sharing stories like his to challenge dominant narratives and expose flaws within the justice system. While some felt that "Enemy Combatant" fell short in achieving this goal, others believed that it effectively shed light on the experiences faced by detainees in Guantanamo Bay.
In conclusion, "Enemy Combatant" is a book that evokes strong and varying opinions from readers. It offers a firsthand account of the struggles faced by Moazzam Begg, but some readers found it lacking in objectivity and cohesive storytelling. Nevertheless, the book serves as an important contribution to the discourse on human rights abuses and the treatment of detainees, despite its limitations.
EnemyCombatantBook WarStory PowerfulNarrative