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

Reader reviewed by Jocey

A Child Called It was one of the most heartbreaking yet inspiring books I have read in my life. It recounts the abusive childhood that Dave Pelzer endured in California from Dave Pelzer himself. Years later, it was determined that Daves case was one of the most gruesome child abuse cases in all of California in that time period. Although it is a shorter book, it does not for one minute seem quick. Every chapter is a new aspect of his life and how he managed to overcome so many obstacles. It is written directly from the heart, so every emotion that he feels during the book inspires the same feelings inside of you. The long and terrible sufferings that David survived from his psycho mother and ignorant brothers is horrifying. Half of the tortures that he survived seemed superhuman to me, it was unbelievable how he somehow managed to have hope and fight back against his enemy. There were several instances while reading the book where I had to remind myself that it is not fictional, that these sad memories are true and real. What was even more disturbing is the fact that children are still abused all over the U.S and world today. Hearing the first hand account of a survivor is an eye-opener to what our society is trying to battle. I never realized before this book what kinds of nightmares exist out there in our world. I now not only feel informed on the matter, but inspired to help others.

Reader reviewed by lizzie

this book is so sad i cried so many times. but the worst thing is the way he was treated. anyone who has any sense could never do this to a child let alone a human being i felt so bad for him. i usually only read romantic novels but this one made me tuck inside my blankets and read read read. this is a nother must read.

Reader reviewed by Ritz

Dave, a child with an adused childhood. Dave's mother had abused him. Throughout his childhood his mother had done this. But what he had dont wrong he does not know. When he was younger he was not abused. And after that he was. When he was abused his brothers and sisters weren't abused. Why his mother abused him he did not know. It is a book thatwill put you in tears as you read along.

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.