Christel Pfeiffer was born in Berlin, Germany to Kurt and Charlotte Becker. She grew up near Dresden/Elbe, and barely escaped the disastrous Allied phosphor bombings of Dresden in February 1945. This was followed by a daring escape from the approaching Russians in May of that same year. She supported herself in Heidelberg, then occupied by US troops, as interpreter/secretary.
KUNTERBUNT: Stories from My Ordinary Extraordinary Life, By Christel Pfeiffer
Paperback, 157 Pages, $17.95
Description:
Kunterbunt tells the story of Christel’s young life in Germany between the World Wars, her daring escape from the Russians at 17, and the slow recovery after the war. Though her story was extraordinary in many ways, Christel often reminded us that her experiences were common among Europeans who lived through WWII. “We all have such tales, and many are much more horrific,” she said.
Christel’s life and generous story-telling underlines the healing and growth that can follow the atrocities of war. Despite the traumas that ingrain themselves in our DNA to be reborn in every generation, Christel’s stories illustrate hope for renewal in embracing life, simple kindnesses, and friendship.