lingness to invest in the future of others. This is akin to achieving self-actualization (Maslow, 1954) without first satisfying the first four levels of needs.CommentsI cannot say that I enjoyed these books. They were a powerful read, but not something I could recommend to someone for a relaxing weekend of reading. The first book is the most compelling, followed by the second. I found it very difficult to wade through the third book, though I cannot figure out why.Although I find it disturbing that Daves mother was never convicted of any crimes, I understand that the structure of society was different back then. Dave is a little younger than I am, and I know from personal experience that teachers, counselors, neighbors and law enforcement officials of the day looked the other way regarding issues of child abuse. At that time, things such as child abuse and other forms of domestic violence were considered to be personal troubles, not public issues.It seems amazing to me that Dave emerged from his embattled childhood with such a positive attitude. How could he be as emotionally healthy as the books lead the reader to believe? My own experience as a victim of child abuse was a far cry from what Dave endured, yet it has been difficult for me to develop and maintain self-esteem, confidence and a sense of wholeness. Considering what Dave went through, it seems odd that he is so sound. I also find Daves apparent generativity to be a contradiction. Am I missing something? What caused Daves mother to single him out as the target of her attacks? Is it even possible that Daves early recollection of a perfect family life is a false memory created as a defense mechanism?After considering these questions, I did some more research. I discovered that Dave spoke in Toledo last year. I managed to find a handful of people who heard him speak. I was somewhat surprised that the reaction to his speaking engagements was so lukewarm. As one respondent put it...
