Midnight Express

by Billy Hayes
Midnight Express cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Biography and Memoir
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Technical
  • ID: 2863
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • Publisher: Dutton Adult
  • Published: 1977-01-01
  • Formats: 4
  • Reviews: 3

Midnight Express is a gripping memoir that chronicles the author's harrowing experience of being imprisoned in a Turkish jail for smuggling hashish. The book delves into the brutal conditions of the prison and the psychological toll it takes on the inmates. /n/n The narrative takes a thrilling turn as the author meticulously devises and executes a daring escape plan, providing a firsthand account of the challenges and triumphs of breaking free from captivity. This is a story of resilience, survival, and the human spirit's unyielding will to freedom.

Reviews
Variety · Billy Hayes · 2020-08-28
critical 3.00

Billy Hayes criticized Oliver Stone's film adaptation, stating it was far from the truth. He emphasized the inaccuracies in the portrayal of his experiences.

In this review, Billy Hayes, the author of the book, expressed his dissatisfaction with Oliver Stone's film adaptation of his story. He argued that the film was far from the truth and contained significant inaccuracies. Hayes emphasized the importance of his own account and how it differs from the dramatized version presented in the movie. He highlighted the need for authenticity in storytelling, especially when dealing with real-life events.

Quick quotes

    Billy Hayes, author of the book on which Oliver Stone based his 'Midnight Express' screenplay, says Stone's version was far from the truth.

    The real Billy Hayes was arrested by Turkey in 1970, we're told, and imprisoned on a charge of trying to smuggle hashish out of the country. He was guilty.

    Stone's version was far from the truth.

Kaggy's Bookish Ramblings · 2018-04-18
compelling 4.50

Hayes's account is a powerful read, offering a firsthand and authentic narrative of experiences and conditions most of us can't imagine. The story is gripping and well-told, making it a compelling read.

The reviewer found Hayes's account to be incredibly powerful and authentic, providing a firsthand look into experiences that are far removed from most readers' lives. They praised the narrative for its gripping nature and the way it brings to life the harrowing conditions Hayes endured. The reviewer also noted that the book is a compelling read, highlighting the raw and honest portrayal of Hayes's ordeal. They appreciated the emotional depth and the way the story stays with the reader long after finishing it.

Quick quotes

    Hayes's account of his ordeal is a powerful read, providing a first hand and authentic narrative of experiences and conditions most of us could never imagine.

    The story is gripping and well-told, making it a compelling read.

    The book is a raw and honest portrayal of Hayes's ordeal, which makes it all the more compelling.

Professional Moron · 2017-09-16
terrifying 4.00

The reviewer found the book terrifying and praised it for its true story, noting that many would struggle in such a situation. They concluded it's a good book.

The reviewer was deeply impacted by the terrifying nature of Hayes's story, acknowledging that many people would find themselves overwhelmed in similar circumstances. They appreciated the book's authenticity and the way it brings to life the true events that Hayes experienced. The reviewer concluded that it's a good book, highlighting its ability to keep the reader engaged and shocked by the harsh realities depicted.

Quick quotes

    I think it's safe to say many folks would foul themselves in such a situation but, yes, true story!

    Good book!

    Terrifying situation. I can't go into the details, but it's a wild ride.

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