With a foreword by the Federal Minister for Education and Research, Prof. Dr. Johanna Wanka. Finally! In May 1985, Peter Hampe was able to leave the GDR with his family. What motivated him to leave this state he calls his Absurdistan is described in this book. While many might feel embittered in light of the injustices suffered, the ideological stubbornness, and human disappointments, Peter Hampe does not. He tells the story of his eventful life with a wink. In 1991, the Stasi Records Act provided the opportunity to access personal intelligence files. I submitted a request, received an appointment after a long wait, and was left in awe.