Brian Keenan went to Beirut in 1985 for a change of scene from his native Belfast. He became headline news when he was kidnapped by fundamentalist Shi’ite militiamen and held in the suburbs of Beirut for the next four and a half years. For much of that time he was shut off from all news and contact with anyone other than his jailers and, later, his fellow hostages, amongst them John McCarthy.
**Blind Flight: An Evil Cradling - A Gripping Memoir of Captivity in Beirut** Delve into the harrowing and profoundly moving true story of Brian Keenan's abduction and years of captivity in war-torn Beirut with *Blind Flight: An Evil Cradling*. More than just a chronicle of survival, this searing memoir offers a deeply personal and unflinching look at the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. In 1985, seeking a fresh start away from the troubles of his native Belfast, Brian Keenan, a university lecturer, travelled to Beirut. Little did he know that his life was about to take a terrifying turn. He was kidnapped by fundamentalist Shi'ite militiamen, thrusting him into a nightmare world of darkness, isolation, and constant fear. For four and a half agonizing years, Keenan was held hostage, enduring brutal conditions and psychological torment. Cut off from the outside world, with only his jailers and, eventually, fellow hostage John McCarthy for company, he battled despair and fought to maintain his sanity. *Blind Flight* is not simply a recounting of the physical hardships Keenan faced. It's a powerful exploration of the human psyche under extreme duress. Keenan masterfully portrays the psychological games played by his captors, the crushing weight of uncertainty, and the vital importance of human connection in the face of overwhelming odds. He vividly describes the strategies he and McCarthy developed to cope with their confinement: creating routines, engaging in mental exercises, and forging a bond of friendship that proved essential for their survival. This edition, published by Vintage UK, brings Keenan's compelling story to life with raw honesty and remarkable clarity. It's a testament to the enduring power of hope and the unwavering human need for freedom, even in the darkest of circumstances. *Blind Flight* is a must-read for anyone interested in true-life accounts of survival, the complexities of the Middle East, and the depths of the human spirit. Experience Keenan's ordeal, his struggles, and ultimately, his triumph over adversity in this unforgettable memoir. Discover why this book has resonated with readers worldwide, solidifying its place as a classic of its genre. Perfect for readers interested in History, Asia, and biographical accounts. This paperback edition published in 2004 (ISBN: 9780099472148), offers a readily accessible and highly readable account of one man's incredible journey through hell and back. Prepare to be moved, challenged, and ultimately inspired by Brian Keenan's extraordinary story.