Publisher's Synopsis
WHO IS TAULE
In "WHO IS TAULE," a poignant memoir, the extraordinary life of a young girl named Peter unfolds against the tumultuous backdrop of World War II. Born in France in 1933, Peter's journey takes her from her homeland to England and eventually to Canada. The story begins in 1946 when she arrives in Canada, onboard a Trans Canada Airlines Lancastrian, a civilian version of the Lancaster bomber. This flight, with its deafening noise and stopovers in Gander, Newfoundland, marks the start of her remarkable odyssey. Despite her French origin, Peter becomes known as Taule once she reaches Montréal. Her parents had named her Peter, but she chooses to reclaim her given name in her new home. Her family history is a tapestry of various origins - her Polish heritage from her paternal side, her father's conversion to Catholicism, and the tragic fate of her parents in Nazi concentration camps. Tante Mathilde, Peter's great-aunt and the guiding force in her life, brings her to England as the threat of the German invasion looms over France. However, their life in Southampton is far from idyllic, marked by financial hardship and the constant threat of bombings during the war. Tante Mathilde's sudden passing on Good Friday changes the course of Peter's life, leading her to Maud Crighton's doorstep. Maud, a war widow who has faced her share of hardships, and Ted Newman, a man who has lost his wife and daughter in a V-1 flying bomb attack, offer Peter refuge and care. They open their hearts and homes to her, and an unbreakable bond forms. What starts as a "marriage of convenience" for Peter's well-being evolves into a loving family. Their decision to adopt Peter and make their family official marks a turning point in their journey. With Father Walsh's blessings, Peter's potential adoption moves forward. As the story unfolds, the narrative is punctuated by themes of love, family, and resilience. The unique circumstances and deep affection between Peter, Maud, and Ted are evident in their shared journey. The challenges they face, the legal complexities of their new family, and the uncertainties of post-war life are all part of their narrative. As they move forward with their decision, they face the world with courage and unity. "WHO IS TAULE" is a two-page memoir that beautifully portrays a young girl's journey through the trials and tribulations of wartime Europe, finding love, family, and hope in the most unexpected places. It's a story of resilience and the power of human connection in a world still reeling from the aftermath of war.