Dave Pelzer is an American author and motivational speaker, best known for his memoir, "A Child Called It." The book details his experiences of severe child abuse and neglect during his childhood, highlighting the struggles he faced and his eventual escape from a traumatic home life. Born on December 29, 1960, in San Francisco, California, Pelzer's story has resonated with many readers, leading to a series of follow-up books that explore themes of resilience and survival. His work has contributed to discussions about child abuse and the importance of support systems for affected individuals.