Gisèle Pelicot's new global icon status

Gisèle Pelicot, a survivor of a mass rape trial, celebrated her journey at the Festivaletteratura in Mantua, Italy, on September 13, 2026. After her trial in 2024, she transformed her trauma into a powerful narrative through her book, "Et la joie de vivre," co-authored with Judith Perrignon. The book has gained international acclaim, selling over 330,000 copies across multiple languages. Pelicot's appearance at the festival was met with a standing ovation, highlighting her resilience and the shift in societal perceptions of shame.