Dave Pelzer, author of Moving Forward: Taking the Lead in Your Life will take part in a book signing Monday, June 30 at 6:00 p.m. at the Clovis Wal-Mart at Shaw and Peach.

Dave Pelzer has triumphed over seemingly insurmountable odds. A survivor of severe child abuse, Pelzer has shared his story in six unforgettable books including the #1 New York Times Best Seller A Child Called “It” which remained on the List for more than six years.

A model of perseverance and self-determination, Pelzer has inspired millions through his appearances on shows like Oprah and Larry King Live as well as through his speeches, public events, and his work with abused and troubled children and teens. In his new book MOVING FORWARD (Center Street, June 2008), Pelzer bares his soul and challenges readers to do the same – to examine their lives, let go of the past, and move forward to greatness for themselves and for others.

For Pelzer, “moving forward” is not just a personal issue. It’s also about setting an example and giving back. It’s about being a true leader and mentor – someone who gets things done without fanfare, bells, or whistles. It means being a good parent, friend, worker, teacher, or
confidante. “Leadership is not about being grandiose or about self-admiration,” he writes, “but rather stepping up and making that singular difference, no matter how minute or tiring it may seem.”

Anyone who has read Pelzer’s books knows that he’s a straight-shooter who calls it like he sees it, even if he shocks or angers others. He believes that the only way to help people change is to shake them out of their complacency. Whether he’s admonishing readers to get some psychological counseling to demolish their mental demons; to take their heads out of the sand and stand up for their values; or to stop whining and start doing, he writes from personal experience. And his words ring true.

In addition to presenting relevant anecdotes from his painful childhood in MOVING FORWARD, Pelzer reveals how even as a successful adult, he still makes mistakes, just like anyone else, and suffers the consequences. But he never gives up. His motto is “take action now.” For him, the first step forward is to expel all of the bad things that happened in the past and not let them stand in the way of a brighter future. He also advises readers to:

• Come To Terms With Your Issues – Make a commitment to deal with your issues. Face them head on. If the way that you are living your life does not make you happy, face the facts and commit to accomplishing something different.
• Learn To Let Go –Thoughts that are not positive and productive are a waste of time and energy. If something negative dominates you, step up to the plate, become proactive, and dispose of all of that unnecessary waste.
• Believe in Yourself – Everyone faces challenging situations. When things get tough, don’t become overwhelmed. Do what you can and keep your focus on the now. Maintain a positive attitude and tell yourself, “I can do this.”
• Step Up – Do not allow yourself to simply follow the crowd. Consciously step out of your comfort zone and stand up for who you are. Believe in your own vision and accept that not everyone will agree with you.
• Be a True Leader – Lead quietly. Become a true leader by living according to your own set of values, every day, no matter who is watching. If you believe in yourself and lead by example, others will follow.
• Be A True Mentor – To be a parent, to manage a team in business, or to stand up to an injustice takes a lot more responsibility and exertion than some are willing to practice. Good mentors make it look simple by focusing on what is important and not complaining about what is difficult to accomplish.
• Hold The Line – Earn the respect of others by meaning what you say and by doing what you say you will. Figure out who you are and what you believe in – and never concede your values.

To help readers put his advice to work, Pelzer includes a series of questions for self-reflection at the end of each chapter. He encourages readers to ask themselves about their beliefs; their desires for change; their needs, goals and aspirations; and most importantly, he asks readers to identify what truly makes them happy.

MOVING FORWARD is a book unlike any other. Part tough-love motivational guide, part memoir, it will inspire readers to take responsibility for themselves, for their own happiness, and for helping others live successful, fulfilling lives.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
DAVE PELZER is the New York Times bestselling author of six books, including the acclaimed memoir A Child Called "It." He is a popular speaker in the U.S. and abroad, and the host of "The Dave Pelzer Show" on VoiceAmerica. When not on the road or with his son, Stephen, he resides in Rancho Mirage, California. Visit his website at davepelzer.com