Aviva Siegel, a survivor of captivity in Gaza, has released a new book titled Survived to Tell, recounting her experiences and the decision she made while still underground to document what she and others endured. Even in captivity, she told fellow hostages they would one day write a book so the world would remember. After returning home following 51 days in captivity, she began writing at the encouragement of her daughter and for the sake of her grandchildren.

Siegel describes the tension between wanting to remember and wanting to forget, recalling how her husband Keith, who remained captive far longer, insisted on remembering every detail while she wished to erase the pain. Ultimately, she chose to record the events in detail so future generations would understand the suffering she, her husband, and other hostages experienced, including abuse and sexual violence.

Speaking publicly became part of her campaign to secure the release of those still held, and she devoted herself to raising awareness around the world. She says writing the book was both a personal victory and a way to cope, allowing her to place some of the memories onto the page rather than carry them constantly.

Although Keith has since returned home, Siegel says her family is still recovering. She hopes the book will preserve their story for generations and believes that open discussion is essential for healing, even as she acknowledges that true recovery remains a work in progress for her and her loved ones.