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The Bodley Head to publish memoir from Gisèle Pelicot
The Bodley Head, an imprint of Vintage, is set to publish a memoir from Gisèle Pelicot, "in her words, to offer solace and hope, and make a positive contribution to changing the conversation around shame and to changing the world". Stuart Williams, publishing director at The Bodley Head, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights to A Hymn to Life from Susanna Lea at Susanna Lea Associates.
In 2024, Gisèle Pelicot waived her right to anonymity in her legal fight against her husband and the 50 men accused of her sexual assault, "inspiring and moving millions of people with her astonishing courage and dignity". Pelicot’s call for shame to change sides in cases of sexual abuse, and the power of the messages she has sent out to the world, have generated an extraordinary public response.
She was named as the most noteworthy person of 2024 in an opinion poll in France, and honoured by Time magazine. The Independent named her the most influential woman of 2025, to mark International Women’s Day.
Pelicot said: "I am immensely grateful for the extraordinary support I have received since the beginning of the trial. I now want to tell my story in my own words. Through this book, I hope to convey a message of strength and courage to all those who are subjected to difficult ordeals. May they never feel shame. And in time, may they even learn to savour life again and find peace."
Williams said: "Gisèle Pelicot has become a global icon. We believe that her voice in this book will speak to many, for years to come. It is a book that we can all rally around – and we look forward to enlisting the passionate support of booksellers, journalists and other champions in bringing A Hymn to Life to English-language readers."
