A Brother's Journey

Surviving a Childhood of Abuse

By: Richard B. Pelzer

Narrated by: Scott Brick

Length: 7 hrs and 10 mins

Publisher's summary

The Pelzer family's secret life of fear and abuse was first revealed in Dave Pelzer's inspiring New York Times best seller, A Child Called "It", followed by The Lost Child and A Man Called Dave. Here, for the first time, Richard Pelzer tells the courageous and moving story of his abusive childhood. From tormenting his younger brother David to becoming himself the focus of his mother's wrath to his ultimate liberation, here is a horrifying glimpse at what existed behind closed doors in the Pelzer home. Equally important, Richard Pelzer's touching account is a testament to the strength of the human heart and its capacity to triumph over almost unimaginable trauma.

©2005 Richard Pelzer (P)2005 Books on Tape, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Gripping....By looking back at, and then releasing, the image of the skinny, red-haired boy who wanted nothing more than his mother's love, Pelzer discovers his true spirit, which he shares courageously and selflessly here in the hope of healing himself, as well as raising awareness of and preventing child abuse." (Publishers Weekly)

So sad!

Great to hear the story from his perspective and his brother's. so sad they endured what they did.

a brothers journey

It did touch my heart and I ache for this kid. I wish he would have told us what happened at the end. I learned he passed away :(((. I guessed his demons got the best of him. who is to say he suffered less than David? I have read a child called it BTW.

heartbreaking...

This book broke my heart. That a little boy could endure so much pain and suffering from the one person that should have treasured him is unfathomable. If descriptions of graphic child abuse bother you, then this book is not for you. It was hard at times to listen to but ultimately I think it brings to light what the devasting effects of mental illness and child abuse can leave on a person.

Excellent book

I cried when I read Dave’s book, but I wanted to wrap with this one. I think this book was very thoughtfully written with help signs along the way.
Please write a book about getting Back in touch with David.

great perspective

It was nice to get the perspective of another in that home. The ending sure does leave room for a 2nd book. I binge-listened to this in every opportunity I had.

loved it

I absolutely love this story! even though it's hard to hear at times it is a story of survival, brotherly love and the human spirit.

wow 🥺

I disliked the truth to their stories. Heart wrenching to say the least. Amazing how resilient Richard was throughout the horror taking place behind those closed doors. A great sentimental read and eye opening for sure.

Powerful

The best of (audio)books lift you from reality, and take you to a different place. This book accomplishes that literary fete. This is the single most powerful, vivid and moving book I have ever listened to; I couldn't wait to get into my car each day to listen to the next installment. I was left wanting to know more, wanting to know what happened next. And, most of all, asking myself how it is possible one person can be so cruel, and one person can live despite being treated like an animal. Good for you Richard, good for you.

Sad story

I enjoyed both this book and a child called it though these books are amazingly sad but we have come a long way these are incredible stories

Very Good

This is a very good read but you had to have read A child Called it first. Then when you hear what happens from his brother's point of view, it's fascinating and horrible at the same time. Although I agree with some of the other reviews about it ending in a way that makes you think, "and then what?" However, the book is still worth reading despite the ending.