KUNTERBUNT: Stories from My Ordinary Extraordinary Life, By Christel Pfeiffer
Paperback, 157 Pages, $17.95
Description:
Christel Pfeiffer escaped the Russians by seeking refuge inside a German tank, but 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. As a child, she found comfort in the rhythm of daily life, even as the German government of that time descended into darkness.
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 the hope in embracing life, simple kindnesses, and friendship.
Christel 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.