Gisèle Pelicot's memoir details her traumatic experiences of abuse but also tells a story of survival, solidarity, and newfound love, drawing notable attention including a meeting with Queen Camilla.
Gisèle Pelicot’s book 'Et la joie de vivre' (translated as 'And Yet the Joy of Living'), co-authored with journalist Judith Perrignon, unveils the harrowing reality Pelicot faced between 2011 and 2020 as she was secretly drugged, sexually abused, and exploited by her husband, Dominique Pelicot. The shocking disclosures, including recorded evidence of approximately 200 instances of rape while she was unconscious, led to a significant court case in Avignon where her husband was sentenced to twenty years in prison along with fifty accomplices.
Beyond being an account of violence, Pelicot’s narrative highlights themes of resilience, recovery, and women's solidarity, as it showcases the support she received from fellow women during the legal proceedings. It also reflects her journey toward healing and the unexpected arrival of new love, suggesting a pathway to reclaiming her life and purpose after such profound trauma.
The publication has garnered substantial attention, culminating in a meeting with Queen Camilla at Buckingham Palace. This gathering not only recognizes Pelicot's bravery in sharing her story but also emphasizes the wider societal issues of domestic abuse and the importance of support systems for victims. The book's record sales indicate a strong public response and an increasing awareness of these critical issues in contemporary society.
