A Child Called 'It'

One Child's Courage to Survive

By: David Pelzer

Narrated by: Brian Keeler

Length: 3 hrs and 46 mins

Publisher's summary

Dave Pelzer's astonishing, disturbing account of his early years describes one of the most severe child-abuse cases in California history. This book spent over 175 weeks on the New York Times best-seller list and was also nominated for the Pulitzer Prize.

Dave was in first grade when his unstable alcoholic mother began attacking him. Until he was in fifth grade, she starved, beat, and psychologically ravaged her son. Eventually denying even his identity, Dave's mother called him an "it" instead of using his name. Relentlessly, she drove him to the brink of death before authorities finally stepped in. With faith and hope, Dave grew determined to survive. He also knew that he needed to share his story.

A Child Called "It" is the first of three books that chronicle his life. Through publications and public appearances, Dave is now recognized as one of the nation's most effective and respected speakers about child abuse.

Listen to the second book in David Pelzer's harrowing, multi-part memoir of child abuse: The Lost Boy.

©1995 David Pelzer (P)2001 Recorded Books

Critic reviews

"Pelzer's portrayal of domestic tyranny and eventual escape is unforgettable." ( School Library Journal)

a painful and tragic story

This book made me feel so many things. it was painful and made me cry so many times. at times this book made me feel physically ill.

Sad sad story. A must listen/read.

Well written and read. Surprised that the end of the story was at the beginning of the book but gave hope to the reader.

A hard but must read

It took me so much longer to read this short book as it was packed with such trauma and turmoil I found myself having to set it down. What a triumph through tragedy to know that David was able to tell his own story having survived the unthinkable.

Good one

I read this book before listening to it. I knew it would be good and it was. I recomend this.

Amazing

This was probably the best book I've listened too / read in my life. I got very emotional while listening to this book and even got sick to my stomach during some parts. I feel that everyone, whether they've been abused or not, should listen to this book. It is very relatable and may open your eyes to why some people act the way they do.

Mind blowing and inspirational!

This is such a heartbreaking story. Especially inspiring that Dave is a living testimony! My heart is full to know that he is living a happy life with his family and is able to speak to others about his experience! Thank you!

best book so heart felt

I love this book my teacher actually read this to me in 8th grade I was about 13 I'm 31 soon an I've never forgotten it it inspired me to want to read i bought the book but with my issues I'm unable to read so this audible was great I so badly wanted to here it now I'm excited to read the others yes its sad but so heartfelt and really can help ppl see the truth

This is an excellent book and needs to be read more!

Extraordinary and profound read This is a statement of what he human soul can withstand. Those of us who grew up hiding the bruises and plastering smiles to cover the broken edges of the children we used to be.
Thank you,

Every Child Is A Gift.

This child endured so much pain and suffering, and still loved his mother despite what she put him. My point of view is simply this. "In the eyes of a child, Mother is God" The bringer of life.

So many emotions!!!

This is the first audible book I’ve read and BOY!!!!! This book made me want to find this woman and deal with her. I was so happy when I got to the end. So happy he survived. I have sooooo many questions. This book was a great read!!!