From the back:
A Child Called "It" is the unforgettable account of one of the most severe child abuse cases in California history. It is the story of Dave Pelzer, who was brutally beaten and starved by his emotionally unstable, alcoholic mother; a mother who played torturous, unpredictable games--games that left him nearly dead. He had to learn how to play his mother's games in order to survive because she no longer considered him a son, but a slave; and no longer a boy, but an "it."
Dave's bed was an old army cot in the basement, and his clothes were torn and raunchy. When his mother allowed him the luxury of food, it was nothing more than spoiled scraps that even the dogs refused to eat. The outside world knew nothing of his living nightmare. He had nothing and no one to turn to, but his dreams kept him alive--dreams of someone taking care of him, loving him and calling him their son.Through each struggle you'll find yourself enduring his pain, comforting his loneliness and fighting for his will to survive. This compelling story will awaken you to the truth about child abuse--and the ability we all have to make a difference.
My Thoughts:
I have had this book for a half decade now and have read it several times. Every time, I know what is going to happen and it still pulls me into the deapths of his world. It is a book that makes me grateful for the family I have and every time I finish reading it I have to look around me and tell my kids how much I love them.
Dave's story about his childhood is a truly aweful thing that no one should ever have to go through, and the way he writes it, it really makes you feel as though you were right there suffering it with him. It is a story that will bring tears to your eyes.
Genre: Self-help, Psychology, Inspiration
Recommended for: Adults, anyone in need of some motivation
Not Recommended for: Kids, people who don't enjoy graphic writing, Chicken Soup haters
My Rating: 4/5
This book will make you cry every time you read it. I cannot relate to Dave because my mother died when I was only eight years old. I know my mom was loving, caring and kind, nothing remotely close to Dave's mom. I can say I am sure no one would want a mother if they where anything as close to Dave's. I am sure no one has felt the pain and suffering Dave has felt as a child. Get your tissues ready. You'll need it. After reading this book, you'll understand what really goes on in the world. It's called reality.
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