Customer Reviews

A Man Named Dave

5 star:		(136)
4 star:		(22)
3 star:		(6)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(9)

 

 

As a survivor it is a bit hard to read these books but they are quite inspirational for those who have yet to escape that sort of a situation. And a tool to help others understand what it feels like to have to go through that. I used to think what happened to me was the worst thing possible but reading this and other types or work on the subject have shed some light on the fact that some extremely terrible things do happen. Pelzer is just trying to show how hard it is to get past something like that. A wonderfully done and tasteful book. Recommended if you haven't read them already.

Also recommended: CHILDREN'S CORNER by McCrae and A CHILD CALLED IT

What an incredible story-one that makes your heart sink, yet at the same time soar with possibilities of hope: If this guy can make it through this, you can make it through anything. Pelzer is a brave man, and if you read his first book, you know what I'm talking about. Horrifying, captivating, and above all, inspirational, this story will stick with you long after you've finished. If you enjoyed the books SYBIL, BARK OF THE DOGWOOD, and his other book, A CHILD CALLED IT, you'll love this one.

Everyone loves Dave Pelzer's books because the story he tells is an incredible story of suvival. I just think it's important to remind readers that there is no real evidence to back up the details of his story (some of it may be innaccurate, there's no way to prove it either way). We want to believe it and believe that Dave is an honest man, and that may be the case, but remember also that he is making a lot of money off these books, also earning a living through inspirational speaking, and money can be a strong motivator to twist truths to make books (or talks) more exciting. His "flowery" language at the beginning and end of all his books bothers me because I feel like he is trying to manipulate me into feeling "moved" by his experience. If he just stuck to the story and weaved his spiritual realizations into the text of the story in a more realistic way, I feel his books would be much better and would feel less manipulative. This is an entertaining book, though, and can be read in a day or two.

First read the book the child called IT.
This is a book every one should read, it makes you think if most children are abused that get in to drugs, drinking and stealing, if that is why they do it. most foster parents deserve a high five who take in those children and try there best to make them a home.this is a must read book.

I read this book after reading "A Child called It", which is his first book. I found the story of how he overcame his horrific childhood very inspiring. I ordered a copy for a friend who is kind of depressed because It shows how you can overcome anything in your past life. I would love to meet Dave and talk to him to tell him how remarkable I think he is. I would really like to know more about whether there is a medical diagnosis for his mother's problem. I don't understand how a person can be so cruel to a child.It bothers me that she was never made to pay for her cruel treatment of her sons.

I hadn't read his previous books, but was aware of Dave Pelzer's history before I bought this one in which I thought he would write about how he survived and recovered from his abusive childhood. Unfortunately I found nothing but the old "pull yourself up by your bootstraps" mantra. As a survivor of severe childhood abuse, I felt re-victimized because I haven't been able to do that. I struggled for decades to go the self-help route and failed. I guess I'm just weak and to blame, yet again, for my condition. Pelzer does all of us who need therapy (and lots of it!) a huge disservice. If you likewise are floundering in your pain, don't read this book - go to a therapist! A final point - I don't think he's as healed as he'd like to believe.

This is the follow up sequal (if you will) to A CHILD CALLED IT. If you're looking for inspiration after a harrowing ordeal, look for further: you just found it. A MAN NAMED DAVE is an outstanding achievement for anyone, but when you consider what this man went though, he deserves a purple heart (or the equivalent thereof). A testament to the human spirit and strength we all have inside ourselves, this book should be required reading in schools.

Also recommended: BARK OF THE DOGWOOD

It's hard to criticize a book dealing with abuse, and I certainly don't have any issues to take up with Mr. Pelzer. This is a fine book, regardless of its topic. If you enjoyed books such as "A Child Called It," "Sybil" or "The Bark of the Dogwood," you're sure to like this one. Pelzer's story is truly amazing and an inspiration to anyone whether they were abused or not.

Sally Tremble, Reviewer
In this book 'A Man Named Dave', we learn that the cycle of violence can be broken. He shares his story of how life turns around for him and how he is able to share his new found growth with that of his wife and child. The past that haunts ' A Child Called It' and 'Lost Boy' are the past memories that will stay with him forever. yet his courage and determination to thrive and survive is shown here in this book. Highly recommended.

Recommended reads are: All of the David Pelzer books,Running With Scissors,Lucky and Nightmares Echo

Tanie Scott-Lewis, A reviewer,
a reviewers suggestion
I read the reviewers suggestion regarding 'A Man Named Dave' and 'Nightmares Echo'. I am very happy to say I am glad I did. Both books serve as a wake up call to what is going on around us on a daily basis. I am feeling so much pride for Mr. Pelzer to have the courage to write this book. As soon as I am done with this review I plan on getting His first two books and then reading this one again.

Also recommending: Nightmares Echo,Running With Scissors, All Of The David Pelzer Books Secret Life Of Bees