Soul Stripping autobiography of a go-go dancer by Paula Charles Original English edition, 224 pages ISBN: 3-9520002-5-6, Price: CHF 28.50 Raised in the West Indies and living in London, at 21 Paula Charles was aware she was headed down the same path other black girls like herself were on. She wanted more out of life. Naive and hopeful, she believed a new life abroad would be her salvation. She hoped for a fresh start in a new country.

Paula arrived in Switzerland with the wrong credentials, the wrong language, education, background and colour. She had gone there to accept what she thought would be a decent job and ended up working as a go-go dancer, exploited, abused and trapped in the seedy underworld where women are nothing more than chattel.

Soul Stripping is the story of another kind of international experience. A story for anyone struggling for an identity in a foreign culture. A story for anyone who has found herself or himself compromised in an effort to do the right thing. It is a story of coping and staying true to yourself no matter how high the odds are stacked against you. The touching story of Paula Charles' struggle with multiple oppressions does not preach about life's evils. She blames no one. In her honest, straightforward telling, she takes you along on her journey to find a better life, love and approval and stay out of the wrong corners.

Reviews

"She was not aware that she was writing a powerful story of her struggle to overcome sexism, racism and class exploitation, and how she beat the odds." Susan Tuttle-Laube, editor

First published in German translation by a Swiss literary publisher, Limmat Verlag, her story reached unexpected places with unexpected results. Since its publication, many people are demanding that something be done to help protect women in the exotic dancer business.

Paula Charles has appeared frequently on Swiss and Austrian TV, given radio interviews and readings for international associations, church groups and even at convents. Her book shows that having the courage to speak out can make a difference, no matter where you are. It is an unforgettable account of intercultural experiences.

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