Interview with memoirist Vivianne Knebel

Today’s special guest is writer Vivianne Knebel. We’re chatting about her memoir, Lessons Learned About Life and Love.

During her virtual book tour, Vivianne will be awarding a $10 Amazon or Barnes and Noble (winner’s choice) gift card to a lucky randomly drawn winner. To be entered for a chance to win, use the form below. To increase your chances of winning, feel free to visit her other tour stops and enter there, too!

Bio:
Born an illegitimate child in the wake of WWII in Berlin, Nazi Germany to a single mother, Vivianne Knebel’s options were limited and her future looked bleak. She experienced poverty, cold, and hunger, and was even driven to the point of committing suicide. To seek out a better life, Vivianne immigrated to Canada as a teenager, but her misfortunes did not end there. However, in response to a miraculous intervention, she decided to preserve her life and keep moving forward.

After this incident, Vivianne met a fellow German immigrant, Wiland, who eventually became her husband. But even more than that, he became a catalyst for change in her life. His belief in her is what helped her see the true, immeasurable value of her life. She went on to play a key role in Wiland’s business venture and together they built a better future for each other.

Since then, Vivianne has run a marathon, learned to pilot a plane, and even beat cancer. She’s found a greater sense of spirituality and wants to share her story with the world, to remind people that there is always a reason to keep moving forward.

Please tell us about your current release.
In my book, “Lesson Learned About Life and Love,” I share some of the lessons I have learned from great minds, which I consider my mentors, and weave them into my own life experiences. My book is a chronicle of healing, resiliency, and compassion. It demonstrates that with dignity and mental toughness, we can heal our own lives.

What inspired you to write this book?
My book is a dedication to my husband, who encouraged me not only to live but to thrive. I wanted to share my personal story of my husband’s failing health, as a testimonial to my love and commitment to his recovery. My intention is to help those who struggle with challenges and to pass on the lessons from my distinguished mentors, philosophers, and great thinkers, to discover the secret to finding joy and meaning even amidst tragedy. My book is a guide on how to cope with challenges, even in adverse situations. At age 78, I address the aging process and how to age well, instead of merely growing old.

What exciting story are you working on next?
Presently I am sharing the secret to a fully realized and loved life, on aging well and finding peace, on radio shows, television, podcasts, and regional papers.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I considered myself a writer after publishing my first book, “From Rubble to Champagne: Rising from the ashes of war-torn Berlin to a life of grace, beauty, and gratitude.”

Do you write full-time? If so, what’s your workday like? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?
No, I do not write full-time. In addition to my book-related work, I spend my days caring for my husband.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I write mainly using pen and paper, so am decidedly old school!

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
As a child who grew up in the aftermath of World War II and experienced hunger, I dreamed of one day becoming a chef.

Links:
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Tumblr | Goodreads | Amazon

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