Benjamin Weir was the first American hostage to be released from captivity in Lebanon having been held for sixteen months by Islamic Jihad Shiites. Hostage Bound, Hostage Free tells the remarkable story of Ben's kidnap, his imprisonment and his eventual release. It is also the poignant story of Carol, his wife, and her attempts to involve the United States' government in Ben's release. Ben and Carol's experiences, told here in their own words, provide a unique insight into the world of hostages, hostage-takers and international politics. Terry Waite, whose role was crucial, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Colonel Oliver North, Robert MacFarlane and George Schultz all figured in the attempts to obtain Ben's release. Ben and Carol Weir were working in Lebanon when their lives were irrevocably altered by events beyond their control. Each suffered isolation, pain, fear and despair, but the outcome is a tale of determination, hope, courage and faith.

Rev. Benjamin M. Weir is the Moderator of the 198th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). His first position in southern Lebanon was as a pastor in the predominantly Shiite town of Nabatiyeh. At the time of his kidnapping he was a missionary in Beirut. Carol Weir is on leave of absence from the Near East Scholl of Theology in Beirut, where she is Assistant Professor of Christian Education. Dennis Benson is Director of Media Ministries and Associate Professor of Communications, United Theological Seminary, Ohio.