Giselle Roeder, Surviving War

Giselle Roeder is the author of several books, including ‘We Don’t Talk About That,‘ a memoir about her idyllic childhood and the horrific experiences during the Russian invasion, rape and murder family’s survival after WWII. She describes three decades of her “life in three Germanys”: First as a child under Nazi rule, then as a teenager growing up in Communist East Germany, and, following her daring escape, life in the West where she had to start all over again.
In “Flight Into The Unknown,” the sequel to the first book, she tells us the story of her marriage to an (unknown) penfriend from Canada, her immigration, her life as a wife and mother to two stepdaughters and later on a son. Her trials and tribulations, the ups and downs of an immigrant with only a rudimentary knowledge of the English language, and her success in overcoming all obstacles are nothing short of inspiring. Despite all odds and never giving up, Giselle became a successful businesswoman and international speaker. Her husband started an affair, which led to their divorce. She lost everything she had built up in twenty years of marriage. Another beginning and for the reader, another book, the final of her memoirs: “Set Sail for Life After 50”
These three books form a ‘trilogy,’ “The Nine Lives of Gila:”
1. We Don’t Talk About That, surviving WWII and its aftermath.
2. Flight Into the Unknown – Dreaming of Life and Love in Canada. An immigrant’s story. (two shows)
3. Set Sail for Life After 50 – Another new beginning after a divorce, lots of travel and ending with retirement. Coming soon.

Giselle’s Mother and sisters.

Please be advised that this conversationin the first show contains difficult and graphic accounts of war, torture, rape, murder, starvation and violence against adults and children. Please listen with care and discretion.

I have found Giselle’s storytelling to be not only informative about the horrors of World War II, but also a remarkable journey of courage, strength, resilience, and adaptability. She is an extraordinary woman who shows us that we can overcome almost anything with the right attitude and truly discover what we are capable of when we choose to rise above our circumstances. Sara Troy, podcast host.

CLICK ON THE BANNERS TO LISTEN TO THE SHOWS.

SHOW ONE. EAST GERMANY AND RUSSIAN INVASSION.