What do you think?
Rate this book
A Ticket to Syria: A Story About the ISIS in Maldives
Beneath the clear blue skies of Maldives, a beast slouches towards Syria to be born.
Zahi has led a perfectly normal life until one day she heads out for a family vacation but finds herself in the conflict stricken sands of Syria. Unknowingly signed up for Jihad along with her family, Zahi is now the newest recruit of the Islamic State. In a hostile environment with no support and where a single misplaced word could mean death, she is able to make contact with her brother back home. Thus is set in motion a web of deception, courage and tragedy as she attempts to escape.
Based on the little known and insidious operations of the Islamic State this book is a startling account of how the Islamic State has perfected a cross-country operation that converts thousands to a depraved cause. Taken from real life events, this gritty account describes in horrifying detail not only the very real and very elaborate functioning of the Islamic State but the motivations that operate behind it.
An authentically written portrait of life in the Islam State, this book will force you to tread carefully as it shatters your illusions. Combining research and accurate information with the heady pace of a political intrigue, this is a ticket that you cannot miss out on.
In a world that is rocked by the violence of a rising Islamic fundamentalism, A Ticket to Syria is that disturbing thriller which is actually true.
Zahi has led a perfectly normal life until one day she heads out for a family vacation but finds herself in the conflict stricken sands of Syria. Unknowingly signed up for Jihad along with her family, Zahi is now the newest recruit of the Islamic State. In a hostile environment with no support and where a single misplaced word could mean death, she is able to make contact with her brother back home. Thus is set in motion a web of deception, courage and tragedy as she attempts to escape.
Based on the little known and insidious operations of the Islamic State this book is a startling account of how the Islamic State has perfected a cross-country operation that converts thousands to a depraved cause. Taken from real life events, this gritty account describes in horrifying detail not only the very real and very elaborate functioning of the Islamic State but the motivations that operate behind it.
An authentically written portrait of life in the Islam State, this book will force you to tread carefully as it shatters your illusions. Combining research and accurate information with the heady pace of a political intrigue, this is a ticket that you cannot miss out on.
In a world that is rocked by the violence of a rising Islamic fundamentalism, A Ticket to Syria is that disturbing thriller which is actually true.
252 pages, Paperback
Published December 10, 2017
24 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
April 5, 2018
So, the protagonist of the book is Sameer Ibraheem who is a doctor, he is back from the Maldives only to find that all his other siblings have for Syria for jihad. Now, the second main person is the businessman Ahmed Idris whose sister is married to one of Sameer Ibraheem’s brothers. The story keeps on shuffling between these two characters and all the chaos they face in order to get their family back safely. With all these going around, there is one of the main characters is called “Contact”. What he does and why he does, you need to read the book to understand, else it would end up being a spoiler.
When it comes to the storyline, the author, Shirish Thorat has kept the intensity of the situation which is a bonus. It’s never easy to keep the thrill stabilized the entire time. Starting from the first page, the story hovers around many important countries, the US to the Middle East, from India to the Maldives but the pace is still the same which I loved. The writing style is smooth and simple with the right amount of details about various situations required. The structure of the story is another aspect which I adored, it kept me going on and on.
The thing which I liked the most about this book are the various characters. Security men, those causing anarchy, the FBI, businessmen with ‘connections’ everywhere, filmmakers who are jihadis, you name it and you have it. This actually makes the book all the more exciting and fast-paced. Reading and understanding of all these intricate characters show the observation skill of the author. Since it is based on true incidents with some fiction added wherever required, so the significance of the encounters that are inside the book is more to be concentrated on.
Talking about the book cover, a mind-blowing one. The two half of the cover actually describes the entire book, a picture of Map and an image of a girl wearing hijab. Adding the apt title given to the book, “A Ticket to Syria- A Story About the ISIS in Maldives”, author Shirish Thorat has not only done justice to the book but also has kept the facts and fiction combined together in a much interesting way. I simply loved this book and it’s just beyond my words
When it comes to the storyline, the author, Shirish Thorat has kept the intensity of the situation which is a bonus. It’s never easy to keep the thrill stabilized the entire time. Starting from the first page, the story hovers around many important countries, the US to the Middle East, from India to the Maldives but the pace is still the same which I loved. The writing style is smooth and simple with the right amount of details about various situations required. The structure of the story is another aspect which I adored, it kept me going on and on.
The thing which I liked the most about this book are the various characters. Security men, those causing anarchy, the FBI, businessmen with ‘connections’ everywhere, filmmakers who are jihadis, you name it and you have it. This actually makes the book all the more exciting and fast-paced. Reading and understanding of all these intricate characters show the observation skill of the author. Since it is based on true incidents with some fiction added wherever required, so the significance of the encounters that are inside the book is more to be concentrated on.
Talking about the book cover, a mind-blowing one. The two half of the cover actually describes the entire book, a picture of Map and an image of a girl wearing hijab. Adding the apt title given to the book, “A Ticket to Syria- A Story About the ISIS in Maldives”, author Shirish Thorat has not only done justice to the book but also has kept the facts and fiction combined together in a much interesting way. I simply loved this book and it’s just beyond my words
February 18, 2018
I received a paperback review copy from Bloomsbury in exchange for an honest review
The story starts off in Maldives ,Dr Sameer learns that his 4 siblings have left to join the Jihadi movement. He is perplexed and ends up contacting Ahmed Idris, whose sister, Zahi is married to one of his brothers, Munsiu . Idris seeks the help of his old friend, whose is known as “The Contact” throughout the book. In the meantime Zahi feels betrayed as her husband, Munsiu had brought her to Syria under false pretexts. She doesn’t understand why the family has joined the IS, and feels stifled between the watchful eyes. She gets hold of an old Mobile and contacts Idris. From then on starts the rescue plan of Zahi directed by ” The Contact”. The story switches between Maldives, Syria,UK . We get to know of different associates of “The Contact” who help him throughout the plan. Through of one the conversations of the “The Contact” we learn about the history of IS .
Will the contact be able to rescue Zahi?
Why is everyone hell bent on joining the Jihadi movement?
How did the Islamic State originate?
Read to find out.
I have read about AL Queda and ISIS in news, I have never understood what prompts the well educated youth to join the Jihadi movement. The book throws light on many of the factors involved. The author has done a lot of research on the history of Islamic State. There are many descriptive parts, but on whole the book is fast paced. The rescue plan formulated by “The Contact” is beautiful in its intricate details. I enjoyed the book
The story starts off in Maldives ,Dr Sameer learns that his 4 siblings have left to join the Jihadi movement. He is perplexed and ends up contacting Ahmed Idris, whose sister, Zahi is married to one of his brothers, Munsiu . Idris seeks the help of his old friend, whose is known as “The Contact” throughout the book. In the meantime Zahi feels betrayed as her husband, Munsiu had brought her to Syria under false pretexts. She doesn’t understand why the family has joined the IS, and feels stifled between the watchful eyes. She gets hold of an old Mobile and contacts Idris. From then on starts the rescue plan of Zahi directed by ” The Contact”. The story switches between Maldives, Syria,UK . We get to know of different associates of “The Contact” who help him throughout the plan. Through of one the conversations of the “The Contact” we learn about the history of IS .
Will the contact be able to rescue Zahi?
Why is everyone hell bent on joining the Jihadi movement?
How did the Islamic State originate?
Read to find out.
I have read about AL Queda and ISIS in news, I have never understood what prompts the well educated youth to join the Jihadi movement. The book throws light on many of the factors involved. The author has done a lot of research on the history of Islamic State. There are many descriptive parts, but on whole the book is fast paced. The rescue plan formulated by “The Contact” is beautiful in its intricate details. I enjoyed the book
February 16, 2018
Rating: 4.2
“Trump urges Turkey to limit military actions in Syria.” These were the headlines that caught my attention when I picked up today’s newspaper. Yes, it was all about Operation Olive Branch. Now you might ask me; Was that Necessary? Just talk about the book. Well, I would say, YES! That’s the point where I picked up this book. A Ticket to Syria is indeed an Eye-opener. When I first read the blurb: I was expecting some political dramas, Mercy less Terrorist – killing thousands of people, bomb blast etc. But I was wrong, not totally though. It turned out to be something else, I liked the way it has been structured by the author.
The book starts with, large number of people heading somewhere and undergoing many security screenings. Is it some Escort operation? Where are they heading to? You got lots of questions running in your mind. As you continue reading you will get a better picture. But not completely. I was tussling with the starting few pages. It took me some time to know about the characters and the things happening around. The book is divided into smaller chapters, which was easier to follow the story.
Zahi, the newly married bride with the high hopes heads out for a family Vacation. Little does she knows the truth. Things now bring storms in her life. She got betrayed by her own people, Munsiu her husband have signed up for the Jihad along with the whole family.
Sameer Ibraheem, trying to figure out what has happened to his siblings soon he learns that his whole family had left the country to participate in the jihad in Syria. Somehow he wants to contact them so that he can convince them to change their decision.
Ahmed Idris, gets a message from his sister Zahi and at any cost he wants her to get out of this mess. With the help of his friend, he somehow manages a bridge of communication with his sister. He relies on his friend for the rescue operation.
Everything is narrated in an apple pie order. Especially the episodes of the character “Contact” and his efforts in helping his friends. The descriptive narration is so intriguing, and every facts, that’s mentioned will blow your mind. Nothing is clichéd, it is so naturalistic. The film making episodes; Life in the Khilafat. The author has treated all the characters equally, the story does the justice to the readers. And most importantly it, ends exhaustively. Overall, this book is definitely a good read. And I would give 4.5 out of 5 stars.
“Trump urges Turkey to limit military actions in Syria.” These were the headlines that caught my attention when I picked up today’s newspaper. Yes, it was all about Operation Olive Branch. Now you might ask me; Was that Necessary? Just talk about the book. Well, I would say, YES! That’s the point where I picked up this book. A Ticket to Syria is indeed an Eye-opener. When I first read the blurb: I was expecting some political dramas, Mercy less Terrorist – killing thousands of people, bomb blast etc. But I was wrong, not totally though. It turned out to be something else, I liked the way it has been structured by the author.
The book starts with, large number of people heading somewhere and undergoing many security screenings. Is it some Escort operation? Where are they heading to? You got lots of questions running in your mind. As you continue reading you will get a better picture. But not completely. I was tussling with the starting few pages. It took me some time to know about the characters and the things happening around. The book is divided into smaller chapters, which was easier to follow the story.
Zahi, the newly married bride with the high hopes heads out for a family Vacation. Little does she knows the truth. Things now bring storms in her life. She got betrayed by her own people, Munsiu her husband have signed up for the Jihad along with the whole family.
Sameer Ibraheem, trying to figure out what has happened to his siblings soon he learns that his whole family had left the country to participate in the jihad in Syria. Somehow he wants to contact them so that he can convince them to change their decision.
Ahmed Idris, gets a message from his sister Zahi and at any cost he wants her to get out of this mess. With the help of his friend, he somehow manages a bridge of communication with his sister. He relies on his friend for the rescue operation.
Everything is narrated in an apple pie order. Especially the episodes of the character “Contact” and his efforts in helping his friends. The descriptive narration is so intriguing, and every facts, that’s mentioned will blow your mind. Nothing is clichéd, it is so naturalistic. The film making episodes; Life in the Khilafat. The author has treated all the characters equally, the story does the justice to the readers. And most importantly it, ends exhaustively. Overall, this book is definitely a good read. And I would give 4.5 out of 5 stars.
March 4, 2018
* I was provided with an arc and I am voluntarily leaving a review *
The book right from the start is like a bang! keeps your intrigued to find out more. I will admit that I started this book with some preconceived notion but all of it was blasted as I kept reading.
The story line of this book is amazing and it is well written. It became easier to read even though there were multiple characters that i needed to catch up on.
All I can say is that when you read this book, dive in with an open mind and You're gonna love it!
The book right from the start is like a bang! keeps your intrigued to find out more. I will admit that I started this book with some preconceived notion but all of it was blasted as I kept reading.
The story line of this book is amazing and it is well written. It became easier to read even though there were multiple characters that i needed to catch up on.
All I can say is that when you read this book, dive in with an open mind and You're gonna love it!
March 17, 2018
Novel: A Ticket To SYRIA: A Story About the ISIS in Maldives
Author: ShirishThorat
Genre: Politics, International Relations and Globalization
Publisher: Bloomsbury India
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9386826631
ISBN-13: 978-9386826633
Have you ever wondered what happen to people who by any chance got into any hostile situation where they get little or no support from anyone? Can you imagine one day you wake up and find that all of your family members are missing and you don’t even have any idea what to do to protect them or help them or to get them back. You are ready to do everything to bring them back but you sudden become so helpless that your world seems blank without them. Never matters how much you love them, they are gone! Believe it or not, it happens! ‘A Ticket To SYRIA’ is a story about lost families because of Islamic State perfected cross-country operation and the violence of rising Islamic fundamentalism.
‘A Ticket To SYRIA’ is a debut novel written by ‘Shirish Thorat’ about the ISIS in Maldives and how the Islamic State perfected a cross-country operation that converts thousands to a depraved cause. The story is based on real events with addition of fiction wherever required. This book is an account of the insidious operations of the Islamic State, described in detail the functioning of the Islamic State and the motives that operate behind it. The story is a result of combined research and accurate information with the heady pace of a political intrigue.
Characters involved:
Sameer Ibraheem: Sameer is the eldest of six siblings, thirty-five years old and the first in the family to go abroad to study and become a doctor. One day, he came to know that all his other siblings along with their spouse and kids have left for Syria for Jihad.
Ahmed Iris: Ahmed Iris is second most important character in the story after Sameer. Ahmed is a businessman who sister is married to one of Sameer’s brother. Ahmed was the one to inform Sameer about the situation.
Zahi: Zahi is the sister of Ahmed and wife of one of the siblings of Sameer. Unknowingly she signed up for Jihad along with her family. Little did she know that her life would turn this way, even she was ready to fight this battle and free herself.
Story:
The story of the novel revolves around the story of Sameer, Ahmed and Zahi. One fine day, when Sameer got the news that his whole family went to Syria for Jihad, he was ready to do anything to bring them back. Ahmed, being an elder brother of Zahi started contacting people and finding a solution to get her only sister back to him. One of Ahmed’s friend (contact) was helping him get his sister back. Meanwhile, Zahi found a way to make contact with her brother back home. I liked the courage shown by Zahi in such a hostile environment and the love and emotions between the family members.
Line from the book that I liked:
One of life’s sobering realities is that there are always people to thank; whatever the task you couldn’t do it alone even if you think you have. This is in no particular order or sequence, everyone mentioned here has been invaluable.
Overall:
Overall i liked the way the author penned down the plot and described the character. The pace of the story is perfectly apt. Language is quite simple but there are some errors in spelling and grammar. Besides this, everything is perfect.
Excerpt from the back cover of the book:
Zahi has led a perfectly normal life until one day she heads out for a family vacation but finds herself in the conflict stricken sands of Syria. Unknowingly signed up for Jihad along with her family, Zahi is now the newest recruit of the Islamic State. In a hostile environment with no support and where a single misplaced word could mean death, she is able to make contact with her brother back home. Thus is set in motion a web of deception, courage and tragedy as she attempts to escape.
Based on the little known and insidious operations of the Islamic State this book is a startling account of how the Islamic State has perfected a cross-country operation that converts thousands to a depraved cause. Taken from real life events, this gritty account describes in horrifying detail not only the very real and very elaborate functioning of the Islamic State but the motivations that operate behind it.
An authentically written portrait of life in the Islam State, this book will force you to tread carefully as it shatters your illusions. Combining research and accurate information with the heady pace of a political intrigue, this is a ticket that you cannot miss out on.
In a world that is rocked by the violence of a rising Islamic fundamentalism, A Ticket to Syria is that disturbing thriller which is actually true.
More about the author:
Shirish Thorat served with the Goa Police for a decade before travelling to UK to study at the Royal Military college at Cranfield university. After a stint in the aviation sector in the Middle East he returned to India where he was a consultant subject matter expert in security and risk and also ventured into the innovative software applications sector for law enforcement agencies. Shirish is considered an authority on terrorism, money laundering and risk mitigation. He is also an ICAO certified aviation security professional. He now resides in New Jersey-USA where he is an independent contractor for risk/threat intervention.
In the evenings he is found walking Maximus, his German shepherd in the park near his home.
Author: ShirishThorat
Genre: Politics, International Relations and Globalization
Publisher: Bloomsbury India
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9386826631
ISBN-13: 978-9386826633
Have you ever wondered what happen to people who by any chance got into any hostile situation where they get little or no support from anyone? Can you imagine one day you wake up and find that all of your family members are missing and you don’t even have any idea what to do to protect them or help them or to get them back. You are ready to do everything to bring them back but you sudden become so helpless that your world seems blank without them. Never matters how much you love them, they are gone! Believe it or not, it happens! ‘A Ticket To SYRIA’ is a story about lost families because of Islamic State perfected cross-country operation and the violence of rising Islamic fundamentalism.
‘A Ticket To SYRIA’ is a debut novel written by ‘Shirish Thorat’ about the ISIS in Maldives and how the Islamic State perfected a cross-country operation that converts thousands to a depraved cause. The story is based on real events with addition of fiction wherever required. This book is an account of the insidious operations of the Islamic State, described in detail the functioning of the Islamic State and the motives that operate behind it. The story is a result of combined research and accurate information with the heady pace of a political intrigue.
Characters involved:
Sameer Ibraheem: Sameer is the eldest of six siblings, thirty-five years old and the first in the family to go abroad to study and become a doctor. One day, he came to know that all his other siblings along with their spouse and kids have left for Syria for Jihad.
Ahmed Iris: Ahmed Iris is second most important character in the story after Sameer. Ahmed is a businessman who sister is married to one of Sameer’s brother. Ahmed was the one to inform Sameer about the situation.
Zahi: Zahi is the sister of Ahmed and wife of one of the siblings of Sameer. Unknowingly she signed up for Jihad along with her family. Little did she know that her life would turn this way, even she was ready to fight this battle and free herself.
Story:
The story of the novel revolves around the story of Sameer, Ahmed and Zahi. One fine day, when Sameer got the news that his whole family went to Syria for Jihad, he was ready to do anything to bring them back. Ahmed, being an elder brother of Zahi started contacting people and finding a solution to get her only sister back to him. One of Ahmed’s friend (contact) was helping him get his sister back. Meanwhile, Zahi found a way to make contact with her brother back home. I liked the courage shown by Zahi in such a hostile environment and the love and emotions between the family members.
Line from the book that I liked:
One of life’s sobering realities is that there are always people to thank; whatever the task you couldn’t do it alone even if you think you have. This is in no particular order or sequence, everyone mentioned here has been invaluable.
Overall:
Overall i liked the way the author penned down the plot and described the character. The pace of the story is perfectly apt. Language is quite simple but there are some errors in spelling and grammar. Besides this, everything is perfect.
Excerpt from the back cover of the book:
Zahi has led a perfectly normal life until one day she heads out for a family vacation but finds herself in the conflict stricken sands of Syria. Unknowingly signed up for Jihad along with her family, Zahi is now the newest recruit of the Islamic State. In a hostile environment with no support and where a single misplaced word could mean death, she is able to make contact with her brother back home. Thus is set in motion a web of deception, courage and tragedy as she attempts to escape.
Based on the little known and insidious operations of the Islamic State this book is a startling account of how the Islamic State has perfected a cross-country operation that converts thousands to a depraved cause. Taken from real life events, this gritty account describes in horrifying detail not only the very real and very elaborate functioning of the Islamic State but the motivations that operate behind it.
An authentically written portrait of life in the Islam State, this book will force you to tread carefully as it shatters your illusions. Combining research and accurate information with the heady pace of a political intrigue, this is a ticket that you cannot miss out on.
In a world that is rocked by the violence of a rising Islamic fundamentalism, A Ticket to Syria is that disturbing thriller which is actually true.
More about the author:
Shirish Thorat served with the Goa Police for a decade before travelling to UK to study at the Royal Military college at Cranfield university. After a stint in the aviation sector in the Middle East he returned to India where he was a consultant subject matter expert in security and risk and also ventured into the innovative software applications sector for law enforcement agencies. Shirish is considered an authority on terrorism, money laundering and risk mitigation. He is also an ICAO certified aviation security professional. He now resides in New Jersey-USA where he is an independent contractor for risk/threat intervention.
In the evenings he is found walking Maximus, his German shepherd in the park near his home.
August 16, 2018
A Ticket to Syria
By Shirish Thorat
I was keen to read A Ticket to Syria because, as a Westerner, I had no absolutely no idea why ISIS appeared on the world scene. It seemed to hit the headlines out of nowhere and I wanted to understand how the movement gathered so much influence in what appeared to me, such a short time. I was also keen to understand the whole concept of Jihad. What would drive someone to don a jacket lined with explosives and blow up a target and themselves?
The Contact, a central character in the story, is an excellent narrator who gives the political and social background to the rise of ISIS. The reason behind the ferocity of its adherents became clearer as I read the Contact’s account.
Sameer is a qualified doctor leading a perfect life with his family in the Maldives. He is the eldest of six. Munsiu, his youngest brother recently married Zahi, a nineteen year old. In his opinion they are deeply in love. However, a darker side to Munsiu is revealed when Sameer learns that all his family has gone to Syria to join ISIS including Munsiu and Zahi.
Zahi believed she was going on holiday to Singapore. Instead she finds herself in Syria and effectively an unwilling ISIS prisoner. She is alone. Everyone else is in Syria by choice. She has one life line – a second mobile phone she failed to surrender when ISIS confiscated cell phones and insisted they surrender their passwords to social media. The story takes shape around this situation.
There are moments when the danger of the situation is effectively accentuated. One of those is the description of the ultra slim phone Zahi surreptitiously uses to send messages to her brother. This pink, girlie, child-like accessory contrasts strongly with the stark, primitive and dangerous environment Zahi now finds herself in.
The novel uses a real event as its inspiration and this gives it context and realism. The Maldives is a tourist mecca promising relaxing sun-soaked holidays. But there is another side to all this beauty and author Shirish Thorat lifts the cover on that not so idyllic life.
He writes in a way that is accessible without resorting to cliché or generalization. He allows the story to evolve without allowing his own opinions to overshadow the story.
Thorat tells the story well and the writing has a journalistic quality which makes understanding the reason ISIS rose out of the dust a lot easier.
By Shirish Thorat
I was keen to read A Ticket to Syria because, as a Westerner, I had no absolutely no idea why ISIS appeared on the world scene. It seemed to hit the headlines out of nowhere and I wanted to understand how the movement gathered so much influence in what appeared to me, such a short time. I was also keen to understand the whole concept of Jihad. What would drive someone to don a jacket lined with explosives and blow up a target and themselves?
The Contact, a central character in the story, is an excellent narrator who gives the political and social background to the rise of ISIS. The reason behind the ferocity of its adherents became clearer as I read the Contact’s account.
Sameer is a qualified doctor leading a perfect life with his family in the Maldives. He is the eldest of six. Munsiu, his youngest brother recently married Zahi, a nineteen year old. In his opinion they are deeply in love. However, a darker side to Munsiu is revealed when Sameer learns that all his family has gone to Syria to join ISIS including Munsiu and Zahi.
Zahi believed she was going on holiday to Singapore. Instead she finds herself in Syria and effectively an unwilling ISIS prisoner. She is alone. Everyone else is in Syria by choice. She has one life line – a second mobile phone she failed to surrender when ISIS confiscated cell phones and insisted they surrender their passwords to social media. The story takes shape around this situation.
There are moments when the danger of the situation is effectively accentuated. One of those is the description of the ultra slim phone Zahi surreptitiously uses to send messages to her brother. This pink, girlie, child-like accessory contrasts strongly with the stark, primitive and dangerous environment Zahi now finds herself in.
The novel uses a real event as its inspiration and this gives it context and realism. The Maldives is a tourist mecca promising relaxing sun-soaked holidays. But there is another side to all this beauty and author Shirish Thorat lifts the cover on that not so idyllic life.
He writes in a way that is accessible without resorting to cliché or generalization. He allows the story to evolve without allowing his own opinions to overshadow the story.
Thorat tells the story well and the writing has a journalistic quality which makes understanding the reason ISIS rose out of the dust a lot easier.
March 14, 2019
The book articulately portrays a lucid narrative of the grandiose scale and disciplinary life of the recruits of the Jihad. A tragic portrayal of Zahi’s holiday that turns into a nightmare as her husband, his three siblings and their families have signed up for Jihad. The story reflects the faith and sentiment of Zahi’s husband’s family that have unflinchingly staked their lives, wealth and progeny for the Jihad.
A parallel story of grit and determination runs through the book as Zahi’s brother struggles to bring her out of Syria. His faithful friends have resolutely staked their lives to help Zahi out. Two of his friends have close encounters with death but narrowly escape!
The book is extremely well researched and I congratulate the author Shirish Thorat for presenting the reality of the situation with an unerring clarity of thought!
I would highly recommend that you book – A Ticket to Syria.
A parallel story of grit and determination runs through the book as Zahi’s brother struggles to bring her out of Syria. His faithful friends have resolutely staked their lives to help Zahi out. Two of his friends have close encounters with death but narrowly escape!
The book is extremely well researched and I congratulate the author Shirish Thorat for presenting the reality of the situation with an unerring clarity of thought!
I would highly recommend that you book – A Ticket to Syria.
January 31, 2018
The title reminded me of the song “Never Land” by The Sisters of Mercy. It has a stanza that goes like this –
“I had a face on the mirror
I had a hand on the gun
I had a place in the sun and a
Ticket to Syria”
I don’t know if the author was inspired by this song when he named his book, but given the premise of the tale, it does justice adequately.
Read the full review here: https://lovewordie.wordpress.com/2018...
“I had a face on the mirror
I had a hand on the gun
I had a place in the sun and a
Ticket to Syria”
I don’t know if the author was inspired by this song when he named his book, but given the premise of the tale, it does justice adequately.
Read the full review here: https://lovewordie.wordpress.com/2018...
September 28, 2024
Reads like a Hardy Boys thriller but ultimately a disappointment as you fail to empathize with the fate of the characters. Sometimes feels too difficult to understand due to being convoluted with technical details of how the ISIS operates. It was a mercy that the author has written in simple high school English which enabled me to - mercifully - finish the book fast.
February 19, 2018
Zahi has lead a perfectly normal life until one day she heads out for a family vacation but finds herself in the conflict-stricken sands of Syria. Unknowingly signed up for Jihad along with her family, Zahi is now the newest recruit of the Islamic State. In a hostile environment with no support and where a single misplaced word could mean death, she is able to make contact with her brother back home. Thus is set in motion a web of deception, courage and tragedy as she attempts to escape. Based on the little known and insidious operations of the Islamic State, this book is a startling account of how the Islamic State has perfected a cross-country operation that converts thousands to a depraved cause. Taken from real life events, this gritty account describes in horrifying detail not only the very real and very elaborate functioning of the Islamic State, but the motivations that operate behind it.
The theme of this book seemed interesting, so I was very excited to read it. The story is set in Maldives and the author has painted a beautiful picture of Maldives. We are able to learn a lot about the historical, geographical, socio-economical and political conditions that exist there. As the story proceeds further, it is spread throughout various countries. The various events and factors that led to the formation of the Islamic State and other terrorist organizations are explained in depth. The book also enlightens the readers about new technological advancements in the area of communication which help the IS as well as the governing bodies and various authorities. It is a suspense thriller and kept me hooked till the last page. The cover of the book is also aptly designed. Overall it was a good read and I really loved the book. I would recommend this book to all.
The theme of this book seemed interesting, so I was very excited to read it. The story is set in Maldives and the author has painted a beautiful picture of Maldives. We are able to learn a lot about the historical, geographical, socio-economical and political conditions that exist there. As the story proceeds further, it is spread throughout various countries. The various events and factors that led to the formation of the Islamic State and other terrorist organizations are explained in depth. The book also enlightens the readers about new technological advancements in the area of communication which help the IS as well as the governing bodies and various authorities. It is a suspense thriller and kept me hooked till the last page. The cover of the book is also aptly designed. Overall it was a good read and I really loved the book. I would recommend this book to all.
February 20, 2018
A Ticket To Syria reads like the perfect Know IS 101 or Inside IS for Dummies. That’s how clearly and succinctly the author, Shirish Thorat, glides between Maldives where the story begins and Syria & US where a lot of the action is.
It’s difficult to believe Thorat in his previous avatar was a policeman. He refrains from officialese mumbo jumbo anywhere in the book but rather his writing reminds one of James Hardley Chase; incisive, racy and knowledgeable at the same time. This book based on real life events of an educated and wealthy Muslim family from Maldives lured into taking up the cause of jihad for IS toggles between places in Maldives, Syria, US and the middle east.
While tracing the tale of the Ibraheem family he recounts in detail how the Islamic State in its mission of implementing the Sharia law uses all means to reunite foot soldiers who willingly or unwillingly are roped in, trained, indoctrinated and let out to carry out the tasks assigned to them. These recruits are like lambs to the slaughter, only they think they are God’s chosen ones!
The launch of this book could not have been timed better with Maldives in the news for its political turmoil and power struggle intertwined with religion, army and the common folks. The characters including Zahi, the main protagonist, the Contact (who I suspect could very well be the author given his background in anti terrorism and money laundering!!) Mike of the FBI, Sameer Ibraheem, Ahmed Idris, are so finely etched out that towards the end the reader can predict how each one will behave. The suspense is gripping and one gets a peek into how Agencies and countries work today in tackling jihadist activities around the world.
My favorite characters are Zahi and the Contact, who does not have a name. Both maintain calm, provide and give information when required and come out looking so competent!
A Ticket to Syria will linger in your memory for a while and the daily news currently could make a lot more sense. A must read for folks who are curious about how religion is used by politicians and fundamentalists for their own narrow misguided goals.
I loved reading this book and rate it 5/5 for Shirish’s first sole attempt.
It’s difficult to believe Thorat in his previous avatar was a policeman. He refrains from officialese mumbo jumbo anywhere in the book but rather his writing reminds one of James Hardley Chase; incisive, racy and knowledgeable at the same time. This book based on real life events of an educated and wealthy Muslim family from Maldives lured into taking up the cause of jihad for IS toggles between places in Maldives, Syria, US and the middle east.
While tracing the tale of the Ibraheem family he recounts in detail how the Islamic State in its mission of implementing the Sharia law uses all means to reunite foot soldiers who willingly or unwillingly are roped in, trained, indoctrinated and let out to carry out the tasks assigned to them. These recruits are like lambs to the slaughter, only they think they are God’s chosen ones!
The launch of this book could not have been timed better with Maldives in the news for its political turmoil and power struggle intertwined with religion, army and the common folks. The characters including Zahi, the main protagonist, the Contact (who I suspect could very well be the author given his background in anti terrorism and money laundering!!) Mike of the FBI, Sameer Ibraheem, Ahmed Idris, are so finely etched out that towards the end the reader can predict how each one will behave. The suspense is gripping and one gets a peek into how Agencies and countries work today in tackling jihadist activities around the world.
My favorite characters are Zahi and the Contact, who does not have a name. Both maintain calm, provide and give information when required and come out looking so competent!
A Ticket to Syria will linger in your memory for a while and the daily news currently could make a lot more sense. A must read for folks who are curious about how religion is used by politicians and fundamentalists for their own narrow misguided goals.
I loved reading this book and rate it 5/5 for Shirish’s first sole attempt.
April 2, 2018
A Ticket To Syria : A Story About ISIS in Maldives
Author - Shirish Thorat
Publisher - Bloomsbury
Language - English
Genre - Thriller , Politics
Cover - The cover is beautifully designed with one part showing the map and the other one showing a girl in hijab. The center of attraction in the cover is the way the title is written . It gives perfect flavour of thrill and suspense.
Title - The title completely justifies the theme and plot of the story . It is short and intriguing.
Blurb - The blurb of the book arises the curiosity among readers that makes it an instant pick. It isn't too descriptive nor is it too precise .
Plot - The plot of the book is creatively crafted with mentions of a good number of places making the readers hooked till the end . It very boldly talks about the issues of Islamic fundamentalism and operations carried out by ISIS .
Characterisation - The soul of the book was the characters. They gave the book altogether a new life . Tough there were many characters but Zahi was my favourite . I loved the way the author has strongly put forward the character of a woman . Also I really loved the character of Ahmed Idris . It is one of the finest crafted characters that I have read till date.
My Verdict - A ticket to Syria is a journey which every reader and non- reader must experience. The thrill in the story will keep the readers hooked till the end . The perfect proportion of fiction and reality makes this book a perfect pick. The detailed description of the events clearly showed the amount of reasearch put in by the author . I just found the book too descriptive at places . Overall a good and unique read .
Rating -
Title - 4/5
Cover - 4/5
Blurb - 4/5
Plot - 4/5
Characters - 4/5
Overall - 4/5
Author - Shirish Thorat
Publisher - Bloomsbury
Language - English
Genre - Thriller , Politics
Cover - The cover is beautifully designed with one part showing the map and the other one showing a girl in hijab. The center of attraction in the cover is the way the title is written . It gives perfect flavour of thrill and suspense.
Title - The title completely justifies the theme and plot of the story . It is short and intriguing.
Blurb - The blurb of the book arises the curiosity among readers that makes it an instant pick. It isn't too descriptive nor is it too precise .
Plot - The plot of the book is creatively crafted with mentions of a good number of places making the readers hooked till the end . It very boldly talks about the issues of Islamic fundamentalism and operations carried out by ISIS .
Characterisation - The soul of the book was the characters. They gave the book altogether a new life . Tough there were many characters but Zahi was my favourite . I loved the way the author has strongly put forward the character of a woman . Also I really loved the character of Ahmed Idris . It is one of the finest crafted characters that I have read till date.
My Verdict - A ticket to Syria is a journey which every reader and non- reader must experience. The thrill in the story will keep the readers hooked till the end . The perfect proportion of fiction and reality makes this book a perfect pick. The detailed description of the events clearly showed the amount of reasearch put in by the author . I just found the book too descriptive at places . Overall a good and unique read .
Rating -
Title - 4/5
Cover - 4/5
Blurb - 4/5
Plot - 4/5
Characters - 4/5
Overall - 4/5
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews