Gisèle Pelicot's book, titled 'Die Scham muss die Seite wechseln' ('Shame Must Turn the Page'), serves as a profound testimony of her experiences surrounding the trial against her rapists. In an exclusive excerpt, Pelicot reflects on her journey from being a joyful wife and mother to being thrust into the painful reality of betrayal and victimization. The narrative highlights the psychological impact of her husband's actions on her life, leading to a drastic shift in her identity and emotional state.

On September 4th, the day of her testimony, Pelicot recalls the pressure and emotional weight of recounting her story in front of a court that was already familiar with her case through previous statements. She emphasizes the importance of articulating her experiences vividly in order to combat the horrendous interpretations that might be put forth by the defense. This moment of public testimony is a critical step in Pelicot's healing process and demonstrates her determination to reclaim her narrative amidst a judicial system where victims often feel silenced.

Through this excerpt, Pelicot not only shares her personal trauma but also sheds light on broader themes of victim advocacy and the need for societal change regarding how sexual violence is perceived and addressed. As she positions herself as both a victim and a survivor, her story calls for empathy and understanding, aiming to empower other survivors to confront their own narratives.