Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Dying kitty

I first read A Child called it about a year ago. Although I knew what it was about, I was not quite expecting the contents that I was confronted with.


A Child called it is a shocking story of appalling child abuse, which no one should have to go through. Unfortunately, as shown in this book, people did go through it, and probably still do.


It's one of those stories that really brings you in and helps you to see through the eyes of the writer, due the detail put into the book. When he's describing some of the punishments it's almost although you are there, watching it, which makes it all the more disturbing and upsetting.

I have also read Dave Pelzers other books; The lost boy and A man names Dave, and both add to the life he had with his mother, but also help to bring a happy end to the situation, despite several other up's and down's in his life, including his dad dying and having a bad marriage and getting divorced.


Overall I think this is a book that should not be thought lightly of. The content is strong and very upsetting in parts but perhaps that is necessary to get his message across. I see it as not only an interesting (if not disturbing) read, but also as a campaign against child abuse.

If you have yet to read this book, go out and buy it but be warned of the contents. Some of the punishments inflicted upon David are things you would not even expect to see in a gore/horror movie. However, it is an interesting and informative read for people who are interested in the subject or who just want to read about someone who has gone through such a bad childhood and come out on top.

Dave Pelzer is an inspiration to all.


-Rachel Hall (17 years old)