Dave Pelzer is an author who does a wonderful job telling his story. I have seen him on Oprah and after reading his book I admire him even more. As a child Dave went through things no child should due to an alcoholic mother and his strength enabled him to turn his mess into a message. This book is excellent for the youth who are in similar situations to motivate them that they can make it. This book is not easy to read due to the nature of the topic but it is a marvelous book I would recommend to others. I received my copy free but it is a book I wouldn't have minded paying for. Great!