The Pale-Faced Lie is a memoir written by David Crow, recounting his tumultuous childhood and adolescence growing up in a dysfunctional and abusive family. The book delves into themes of identity, racism, and the search for self-acceptance.

David Crow was born in 1960 in New Mexico to a Navajo mother and a white father. From an early age, he was subjected to physical and emotional abuse at the hands of his father, who was a con artist and a violent alcoholic. Crow’s father, Vernon, would often manipulate and deceive others for personal gain, leaving a lasting impact on Crow’s perception of truth and reality.

Growing up in a predominantly white community, Crow faced constant discrimination and racism due to his mixed heritage. He struggled with his identity, feeling like an outsider in both the Native American and white communities. This sense of alienation led him to adopt various personas throughout his life, trying to fit in and find acceptance.

The memoir explores the complex dynamics within Crow’s family, particularly his relationship with his older brother, Rocky. Despite their shared experiences of abuse, Rocky becomes an enabler for their father’s behavior while David becomes determined to break free from the cycle of violence. The contrasting paths taken by the brothers highlight the different ways individuals cope with trauma.

As Crow grows older, he becomes involved in criminal activities, including drug dealing and theft. These choices further complicate his journey towards self-discovery and redemption. However, through perseverance and introspection, he eventually finds solace in writing and storytelling.

The Pale-Faced Lie is a raw and honest account of one man’s struggle to overcome adversity and find his place in the world. It sheds light on the lasting effects of childhood trauma and the power of resilience. Through his narrative, David Crow offers insights into the complexities of race, family dynamics, and personal growth.

Overall, The Pale-Faced Lie is a compelling memoir that explores themes of identity, abuse, and the search for belonging. It serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of self-reflection.

• The Pale-Faced Lie

• A True Story
• By: David Crow
• Narrated by: Kaipo Schwab

Growing up on the Navajo Indian Reservation, David Crow and his siblings idolized their father. Tall, strong, intelligent, and brave, the self-taught Cherokee wowed his family with stories of his exploits during the Second World War. But as time went on, David discovered the other side of Thurston Crow, a former criminal with his own code of ethics that justifies cruelty, violence, lies – even murder.

A shrewd con man with a genius IQ, Thurston threatened David with beatings to coerce him into committing his offence. David’s mother, mentally ill, is unable to care for her children and is unable to protect him. One day, Thurston packed up the house and took the kids, leaving nothing for her. Soon, he remarried, and David learned that his stepmother was just as cruel and abusive as his father.

Through sheer determination and with the help of some angels along the way, David got into college and achieved career success. When he finally finds the courage to stop aiding his father in his criminal activities, he inadvertently triggers a plot of revenge that forces him to confront Thurston Crow. With his life at stake, including his own, David will only have 24 hours to outrun his father, the mentally intelligent man who brags about three years he spent in the infamous San Quentin State Prison. It was the easiest time of his life.

Well written, gritty, and engaging, Crow’s gripping book draws you into his violent and dysfunctional criminal upbringing. The Pale-Faced Lie reliably develops its characters from the harsh poverty of the southwestern desert to the height of power in Washington, D.C. rich. This is a well presented inspirational piece. Thanks to David Crow for bravely sharing his story.

I relate to many aspects of this book but even without common ground I wouldn’t be able to put it down. Great narration, as well. Top book out of 14 in 2020, so far.

A painful story to listen to, but I feel better for it. I certainly empathize with many and am delighted that David has found the spiritual healing of forgiveness. Life has paradoxes.

This story filled me with a full spectrum of emotions. I have never cried while reading a book before, but this story brought tears to my eyes. It’s an inspiring story about a boy from a disadvantaged background who finds love and success despite adversity. You will not regret reading this book.

 

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