Saved Book Summary - Saved Book explained in key points
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Saved summary

Benjamin Hall

A War Reporter’s Mission to Make It Home

4.1 (116 ratings)
16 mins

Brief summary

'Saved' by Benjamin Hall recounts the heroic real-life stories of ordinary people who were saved from perilous situations by their faith in God. It's a testament to the power of spiritual belief and perseverance in times of crisis.

Table of Contents

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    Summary of 7 key ideas

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    A Voice in the Dark

    The first bomb had whizzed overhead and exploded a stand of birch and pine trees just 20 feet ahead of them. In the chaotic aftermath, experienced cameraman Pierre Zakrzewski had shouted for the driver to reverse direction, but the second bomb exploded before anyone could respond. 

    In the silence and darkness following the second explosion, correspondent Benjamin Hall stepped out of time. He felt no pain, no urgency – nothing at all. Slowly, he became aware of a familiar figure hovering before him. Then, he heard the voice of his young daughter urging him to get out of the car. Feeling her presence, he somehow understood he had to move if he was going to keep on living.

    In shock and gravely injured, he summoned what strength he could for the grueling process of crawling out from the back seat of the car – just in time, in fact. Moments later, the third bomb exploded.

    By some miracle, Ben had survived the bombs that destroyed the small red car used by the Fox News team – who, just weeks before, had arrived to cover the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine. His colleague Pierre had also survived but was on the ground, bleeding out from an injury to his femoral artery. 

    Their situation was dire: so close to combat and far from the journalists’ home base in downtown Kyiv, the area around them was deserted. As Ben lapsed in and out of consciousness, he noticed that his injuries were significant. He also became aware that their car had rolled downhill off the main roadway and couldn’t even be seen from the road if a vehicle should pass. He would have to get someone’s attention if he had any hope of being rescued – and so he began slowly crawling upward in a desperate attempt to be seen.

    After what seemed like hours, Ben at last heard a familiar sound. A car was approaching. In a final burst of energy, he began frantically waving, shouting, even throwing clumps of dirt – anything to attract attention. Soon, he felt a hand grab the back of his jacket and lift him up. In the blinding rush of pain that followed, his brain could only hold on to one thought: they’d been saved.

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    What is Saved about?

    Saved (2023) is the gripping and timely account of a war correspondent’s near-fatal brush with combat in Ukraine in March of 2022 – and the extraordinary effort to save his life and bring him home.

    Saved Review

    Saved (2022) by Benjamin Hall is a captivating exploration of human survival stories that will leave readers inspired and amazed. Here's why this book is definitely worth your time:

    • The book presents gripping and dramatic accounts of people finding the strength to overcome extraordinary challenges and escape life-threatening situations.
    • By exploring a variety of scenarios, from natural disasters to risky adventures, Saved offers a unique perspective on the resilience and determination of the human spirit.
    • With its fascinating and well-researched stories, the book ensures that every page is filled with excitement and curiosity, making it an engaging and definitely not boring read.

    Who should read Saved?

    • News hounds looking for an inside scoop on current events
    • Thrill-seekers who love a fast-paced story of escape against the odds
    • Anyone curious about the lived experience of those who deliver the nightly news

    About the Author

    Benjamin Hall is a former freelance war correspondent and Fox News journalist. He has written for numerous publications including the New York Times, the BBC, and Agence France-Presse.

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    Saved FAQs 

    What is the main message of Saved?

    The main message of Saved is to value and appreciate the small moments in life that bring joy and purpose.

    How long does it take to read Saved?

    Saved can be read in a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is Saved a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Saved is a heartwarming book worth reading. It offers a touching story that reminds us of the importance of human connections.

    Who is the author of Saved?

    The author of Saved is Benjamin Hall.

    What to read after Saved?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Saved, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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    • Chill by Mark Harper
    • Tapping by Donna Eden
    • Improving Your Relationship For Dummies by Paula Hall
    • Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
    • Single, Dating, Engaged, Married by Ben Stuart