Dreams of a Refugee: From the Middle East to Mount Everest

by Mostafa Salameh

Mostafa Salameh's extraordinary journey began with his birth to Palestinian refugee parents in Kuwait in 1970. Through a chance meeting he came to Edinburgh where he studied hospitality and read widely in Sufi religious philosophy and world belief systems. Here he had a profoundly religious experience which was to change the direction of his entire life. One night Mostafa dreamt that he was standing atop Mount Everest reciting the call to prayer. With no prior experience or training, he decided he would follow his vision and climb. He failed to summit Everest twice before reaching the summit in 2008 – he went on to become the first Jordanian Palestinian ever to reach the North Pole and summit all seven highest peaks in the world. Yet exploring is only half the story. As a devout Muslim, Mostafa is committed to spreading the message of tolerant Islam and to helping others to take the right path. A motivational speaker and activist, he is working to turn Arab youth away from radicalization. Mostafa is a model for born Palestinian, raised in Jordan and Kuwait and identifying as Scottish, his wife is a Catholic and he has 4 boys. Through climbing he has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity. 2016 will see Mostafa reach the South Pole to become the first Muslim ever to complete the full distance and the screening of a documentary of his life, filmed in Jordan, Edinburgh and Beirut. Dreams of a Refugee tells the remarkable story of Mostafa's his views on the varied meanings of Jihad; being A Muslim ; Everest, the North Pole and Climbing, tolerant Islam; Sufism and religious pluralism as well as his love of Scotland, his adopted home country. At a time when positive images of Islam can seem few and far between, Mostafa's story is one of extraordinary faith and positivity that will appeal to religious and non-religious readers alike.

256 pages, Hardcover

Published September 27, 2016

Reviews

[Omar · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great and interesting writing of the life of Mostafa Salameh who defied the odds and became something better than what the world planned for him.

[Louise Armstrong · Rating 2 out of 5]

I would have liked to like this book more. The author doesn't know that it is more interesting to read about small things in great details than big things with no detail. He keeps saying things like, 'The King of Jordan was very generous...' And I'm thinking, go on then, so how did that happen? I wanted to know how one of those lads you see drifting around in the back of restaurants made good.

I also wish he'd listened to the TV director - I do understand why he feels bitter, and didn't want to take a mixed group of Palestinians and Israelis up a mountain, but he missed an opportunity. What if the experience made those 5 Israeli kids understand? What if more Israeli's had watched the TV programme and felt moved to do something to make the situation better?

[Jason · Rating 2 out of 5]

Great expectations for this book, but it didn't deliver. I was looking forward to reading the story of how a refugee, particularly a Palestinian one, found purpose in life. Salameh's account began well, but tapered off about the middle of the book and attempted a switch from memoir to explanation of different types of Islam (Sufism in particular) and a generalized history of Palestinian/Israeli conflict. I understand the heart of promoting peace (and agree), but this book trades on the story of the author's life and accomplishments. The second half should be saved for lectures and motivational talks that the book promotes. Also, at times, this book feels like it promotes/highlights the wrong details. For example, much is shared on his drug use, illicit lifestyle, and syncretic religious journey, but very few details on interactions with Jordan's royal family, his knighthood, and physical training steps towards his climbs, etc. In fact, the only climbing accomplishments really fleshed out are his Everest attempts. Another example, we learn a lot about his internal conflict and feelings, but almost nothing about the people or relationships in his life. Furthermore, several times throughout the book, especially in the second half, totally random paragraphs were inserted with sweeping statements that were never fleshed out. In short, I think Salameh just needed a better editor to help him prioritize topics and create a better flow of thought. Maybe a second edition with details on his South Pole trip?

[Danny Flood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mostafa’s journey from a refugee camp to the top of Mount Everest and the North Pole isn’t just a story of luck; it’s a masterclass in Al-Iltizām (discipline) and intentional living. Having spent significant time trekking in the Himalayas myself, I recognize the "Everest Mindset" he describes—it’s the quiet endurance required to stay calm when everything goes wrong.

Mostafa didn't just dream; he acquired the skills, failing twice before finally summiting in 2008. He proved that the individual most adaptable to ever-changing environments—whether ice, rock, or cultural shifts—is the one who truly succeeds.

This book shows us that "Maktub" (destiny) isn't about being a passive observer but about having the faith and discipline to awaken to your true calling. This is a rare, raw, and practical testimony from a man who has inspired thousands. If you want to understand how to turn your own "impossible" into your practical reality, read this book.

[John Langan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mostafa's story is a heartwarming example of following your own compass and path, in a world that rarely supports us to do so. The book is laid out beautifully and chronicles his journey from selling sweets in a refugee camp as a child, to creating true community leadership through self development and adventure, very beautifully. It's an inspiring story that lifts the heart and resonates with people of all ages. My sons LOVE Mostafa's story, and the children's books about his story are also a wonderful platform to inspire young minds and foster the essence of self belief and courage. I found it hard to put Dreams of a Refugee down - a real page turner!

[Pam Mason · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this as it showed what anybody can do in life with lots of determination and setting goals. I felt that the transition from his achievements to talking about muslins was not easy as it did not go smoothly. Even so I still liked all the background information on Islam and Palestine and it was easy to follow but it felt like I was reading two books.

[Ferdinand Gernandt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insightful, entertaining, intentional

I enjoyed getting to know Mostafa through his backstory, history of his land and the fierce goals he sets for himself.
We tend to allow our history & heritage to shackle us instead we can rise above with a firm understanding of faith, pure intention and a positive mind.

Thank you, Mostafa.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was recommended by by a friend and it didn’t disappoint, thoroughly enjoyed it, Mostafa’s story is an inspiration to many young people around the world who are struggling with their lives right now, believing in yourself and working towards your goals is something that will make your dreams come true in the end.

[Zeena Kalaldeh · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book that has a gentle spiritual flow to it, touring the physical and non-physical realms in Mostafa’s life; shaping his deep spiritual roots, and the mesmerizing journey that he is still embarking on; led by fate and molded by belief. The calling of the mountain, was a catalyst that helped him achieve the physical and spiritual awakening which superbly reflects in the book.

[ناديا · Rating 2 out of 5]

Im not sure about my opinion !
I think there were unnecessary details , I’m aware the purpose of the book is more than telling a life story but I felt things are pushed in a way just to clear out about islam and Palestine .. Good chapters I have to say however he could mention briefly ..

[Mustafa Kurdstani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing story, very inspiration.