A Child Called "It": One Child's Courage to Survive (Dave Pelzer #1)

Reader reviewed by undercover reader

Little David was always in a constant struggle day in and day out to survive. His alclholic, sick, cruel, and abusive mother played such severe games with David. At times David wasn't sure if his mother was going to kill him today or tomarrow.


Although young, to survive his horrid lifestyle, where he slept in the basement with no covers for warmth, went days without food, and had bruises through out his whole body. He learned to think like an adult in order to survive his mother's rage and abusive "games". A teacher at his school finally reports Davids scars to the police. David was finally told what he wanted to hear most of his entire life
"She will never hurt you again"

Although this story was so horrifying, at the end, the happy ending made it worth while. Can't wait to read the lost boy.

Honestly, I would'nt reccomend it to faint hearted readers.

Reader reviewed by amanda

This is an emotion filled book with what could be considered for mature audiences, those who are able to cope with the violence that was done to David.

I think this is a must read for everyone eventually, but parents need to decide when it is right for someone under the age of 14. It exposes a world that is often ignored but is very important to realize that such violence can take place, even with family members.

Reader reviewed by Steph

I think this book is a true gem in a pile of rocks.It shows how child abuse is a real problem in the world and how it affects our most inner thoughts and lives.Showing how love is a true necessity in a child's life and should be given whith open arms,and no one even the most selfish of children should live without it.

Reader reviewed by April

I was between books at the time and didn't know what to read, when my mom told me I should read A Child Called It. I admit I was a bit hesitant at the time, but once I read it I just wanted to cry. I mean, who could allow their child to be put through so much pain??

Reader reviewed by Kayla

I thought this book was sooo sad. I cried almost throughout the whole book. I couldn't even imagine what David went through. I don't even know how he survived. I've read this book 3 times already within about 1 month and I'd really suggest for others to read this book.

Reader reviewed by terra

This is story about a little boy from the ages 4 to 12. From the time he is 5 he's beaten by his mother. She plays 'games' that he has to figure out in time or most likely die. He is forced to sleep on the old army cot in the basement. She starves him for days on end so he is forced to steal food. But the sadest thing of all is that this is a true story. This happens to kids all over the world every day. This is an amazing book that will open your eyes and touch your heart.If you havent read it sugest you do.

Reader reviewed by Mart

This story is about a boy getting abused by his mother.his father does not know this because he is on trips. If he does not do his chores, he will get a beaten. This story has drama and very brudal. It is a very good book!

Reader reviewed by chatterbox891

The story told in this book is so awful that I was amazed to find that it is a true story. This book is a guesome tale of one child's struggle to basically stay alive in his mother's cruel household. Dave Pelzer tells his story, how his father left when home life got unbearable and how his mother treated him like, well, garbage. He was forced to clean while his brothers got McDonald's. I found this book to be a wonderful read that left me pondering Dave Pelzer's early life.