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

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 Mi-chan

A really moving story. It shows that the will to survive is the strongest hope that humans have. The author of the book is the boy and he bravely retells his story. It shows what children are feeling when they're being abused. There are very gruesome parts to this book but everyone should read it.

Reader reviewed by tasha

this book is basicly about a boy named dave and his mom is always beting him 4 no real reasons and he lives in the garage his mom @ first was a loveing and caring mother but then she just became a devil come 2 life well only to her son dave! this book literly made me cry and iam 15 yrs old

Reader reviewed by Aileen

I literally cried while reading this book. It is written from the viewpoint of a child, using simple language and conveying the confusion and thought process that he had as a child. I went through an entire spectrum of emotions as the book went on, and I admire the writer, Dave, for having the courage to write it. I don't think anyone can read this book without undergoing some sort of transformation. Dave really accomplished something by writing this novel, by putting his story out there. He increased awareness and I for one have a greater understanding of the hell these kids are put through and what some of the signs are.


Writing with a purpose. I respect that. I can only hope that no one else has to go through what Dave did, but unfortunately, the world isn't like that.

Reader reviewed by Ashley

This book was extremey heartbreaking and yet at the same time it gave you hope. I read it about two years ago. I read it only once for a school thing and i never forgot it. it stays with me in my mind all the time. unfortaneatly I have not yet bought it, but i encourage everyone to read it. It includes alot about things that actually happen to young children

Reader reviewed by jessica

an absolutly heart-wrenching story of a young boy named dave who is horribly abused by his mother. the first in an amazing series that will break your heart and give you an unshakeable urge to hold your kids close and tell them how much you love them. saying this book is a great read would be a horrible understatement.

Reader reviewed by Katie Bishop

After reading just parts of that book make me break down. I have expierenced some abuse but not that intense. That is so horrable a parent can be that mean to an innocent little child.That mother should have been sent to prison hopefully she went to hell where she belongs.

Reader reviewed by Bettina

David Pelzer's mom abuses him alot. His mother only abuses him, not any of his other brothers. David's mom makes him do all of the chores and if he doesn't do it right he is punished by not getting any food. His mother also punishes him for no good reason, like hitting him. David always tries to get more food but his mom is determined not to let him get any but food she gives him. David is determined not to let her get him down.

I thought this book was disgusting but it will keep you wondering what David will do next.

Reader reviewed by two sided freek

It's a true story and the 3rd worst child abuse case reported in US. the 1st and 2nd case's victim's didn't survive. What really amazes me is that David Pelzer had the courage to write about his childhood, to bear his vulnerablities to the world and break the child abuse cycle, now with his own child a girl he really loves. The incidents in this book have you crying with sympathy for him and believe me this is a tear jerker. You have to read it

Reader reviewed by chick box

this book totally messed up my emotions! its about a boy and the abuse that he goes through by his alcacolic mother. all the pain this mom can do to a poor innocent boy just makes me sick. yet it did teach me to be grateful for what i have and for the wonderful parents i have.