Six Years a Hostage

More about the book

Stephen McGown was on a motorbike journey from London to South Africa when he was captured in Timbuktu, Mali, by Al Qaeda militants along with two other nationals. His British passport made him a target, leading to nearly six years of captivity in various Sahara Desert camps. This sudden abduction altered his life forever, leaving him with nothing to bargain and everything to lose. During his imprisonment, he engaged in what he termed the greatest chess game of his life. Meanwhile, his family in Johannesburg, including his wife Cath, worked tirelessly through diplomatic channels to secure his release. As months turned into years, Steve had to adopt extraordinary survival strategies, focusing on raising his status with his captors. He learned Arabic and French and converted to Islam, taking on the name Lot. Remarkably, he holds the record as the longest-held surviving prisoner of Al Qaeda. Through his intimate experiences with his captors, Steve gained a unique perspective on the militant group. His story is one of resilience, showcasing mental strength and personal transformation. Ultimately, he emerged from the ordeal a changed, stronger individual. This remarkable account is narrated by Tudor Caradoc-Davies, a seasoned freelance writer and editor based in Cape Town.