Better Dead Than Poor

Stories and Letters from Uncle D.B. Cooper

Non-Fiction - True Crime
328 Pages
Reviewed on 02/04/2026
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite

Better Dead Than Poor by Lisa Story (Stories and Letters from Uncle D.B. Cooper) is a moving true crime memoir. When Walt’s father unexpectedly died in a freak accident when Walt was very young, his life took a tragic turn. Walt felt this tragedy changed the course of his life, and his later misconduct and lawlessness were a result. As Lisa explores her uncle’s history and career through his letters, notes, friends’ memories, and anecdotes, she uncovers some amazing possibilities surrounding her Uncle Walt’s life. Walt was a very mysterious man who led an exciting and adventurous life. Amongst all the stories he told about himself, he included robberies, parachuting in the Army Airborne, assassination attempts, and the infamous 1971 hijacking of Northwest Airlines Flight 305 by D.B. Cooper, leading to the question, was he D.B. Cooper? Whether he was or not, Walt led a spectacularly adventurous life that deeply touched his friends, family, and everyone who came in contact with him.

Better Dead Than Poor by Lisa Story is a fascinating account of an intriguing and unforgettable man. It is a compelling tale that is so astonishing and incredible that authenticity rings throughout the dramatic narrative. Although the story mainly focuses on the common factors between Walt and D.B. Cooper, Walt’s verifiable accomplishments are just as riveting and even more imposing. Undoubtedly, the charismatic Walt Peca/Reca led an extraordinary life, and his experiences would give Robert Ludlum’s character, Jason Bourne, a run for his money at the box office. I would love to see Walt’s memoir on the big screen. Everyone who loves a good anti-hero will enjoy meeting Walt.