A Man Named Dave

David Pelzer's book, "A Man Named Dave" is the third book of his biography triology. The first book, A Child Called It, covered David's life from about five to the age of twelve years old. During this period of time, David was physically, mentally and emotionally abused in unimaginable ways. His inner strength, his dreams, the smiles, kind words and self-determination gave him the strength to survive day after day. At the age of twelve, he went to school with sever chemical burns on his body and it was then when his teacher, the nurse, the principal and the police officer risked everything to save David.

Mr. Pelzer's second book, The Lost Boy, recalled David Pelzer's years between the ages of 12 and 18. He traveled from foster home to foster home and ended up at the Turnbourgh's. Although David was out of the house where "The Mother" lived, her hand stretched out and touched his life on a daily basis. David could not get away from his mother's touch or ice cold touch. He longed for the day when his dad would contact him (i.e. in person, by phone or letter); however, his communication was extremely limited. At the age of 18, David Pelzer joined the airforce.

A Man Named Dave is the third book of Mr. Pelzer's biographical triology. This book takes us through his first marriage, the birth and youth of his son (Stephen), his years in the air force as a cook and pilot, his early years as an inspirational speaker, his divorce, and his second marriage. For those of us who have read the first two books, this book provides the answers to many of our questions about how David Pelzer turns out.

MY TWO AND A HALF CENTS:
I highly recommend these three books in their entirety for all teachers, social workers, principals, school personnel, and any other profession that works directly with children. These books provide the reader a window into the life of an abused child. The books are difficult to read due to the severity and harsh conditions David Pelzer was forced to live through. However, David is an inspiration and provides hope to all who face the unimaginable as a young child.

After reading all three books I am walking away with five main points I hope to never forget.
1. David had a dream, a vision. It was this dream, this vision that kept him focused and gave him hope.
2. David prayed to God regularly. He sought God for strength.
3. Although David was a victim, David did not fall into the victim trap. He did not wallow in self-petty. David knew that if he was going to be somebody or get somewhere, he had to make it happen.
4. The odds were against David, yet, he did not let that stop him. David pressed on despite the lack of encouragement or support. David remained laser focused. David persevered. He did not give up.
5. In order to accomplish a task, good or bad, David broke it up into manageable steps. Although he had is eye on the big picture, he knew the best way to complete the picture was one step at a time.

David, thank you for your courage and willingness to share your life's experiences with those of us who work with children. You have opened the eyes of many and have given hope to many more.

These three books will remain on my professional bookshelf for years to come.