The Lost Boy

By: David Pelzer

Narrated by: Brian Keeler

Length: 7 hrs and 30 mins

Publisher's summary

The Lost Boy spent over two years on the New York Times best-seller list and has profoundly influenced more than one million readers' lives.

Following the tremendous success of Pulitzer Prize nominee A Child Called "It", this book continues the extraordinary tale of author Dave Pelzer's childhood. On the verge of adolescence, Dave is rescued from his terrifyingly abusive, alcoholic mother and made a permanent ward of the court. Then the real journey begins. He is moved from one foster home to another, searching for identity and family. A rebellious, defiant boy, Dave seeks attention by shoplifting and even spends time in juvenile detention when suspected of arson. Finally, after five sets of foster parents, he finds a mother and father who love him.

Pelzer, who has received commendations from Presidents Reagan, Bush, and Clinton, travels throughout the world inspiring others through speeches and work to prevent child abuse. His courageous story is enhanced by Brian Keeler's thoughtful narration.

Listen to the first book in David Pelzer's harrowing, multi-part memoir of child abuse: A Child Called "It".

©1997 David Pelzer (P)2001 Recorded Books

Critic reviews

"This is sure to be popular among students and readers who await a sequel to A Child Called "It". Well recommended." ( Library Journal)

no words...

opened my eyes to this secret world of some few children. once you start reading, you will not want to put it down.

The Lost Boy

This was an amazing book and easy to listen to. I hated to stop it. I would recommend it highly.

This is why foster homes are vital!

After such Crazy abusive up until sixth grade David is helped in Normas Lee by his social worker’s probation officer later and the kind parents in his foster homes. It is quite a story even imagining how he may have seemed from the other side then in his retelling it is a good read

Breaks my heart

Wow, a story of resilience and awareness to children in need. Dave is very courageous for sharing his story.

Everyone must Get This

Important to hear what came next, the growing up in and out of foster care. I cannot imagine, truly. Its great to know he found real friends and a home eventually, as well as a father figure he looked up to. I liked this very much, the coming of age type feel, and its full of messages surely to make you think. Particularly, really loved what he told his 2 friends at the end, not to mention the sheer determination and will for survival that takes a personqo, is amazing. and pulling himself out and the need to continue his work of saving, and preparing for his near future. His words even helped Me - it was what he said when telling his friend that [He mdidnt know why any of it happened or why his mother did it, but one thing he did know, was that he didnt want to go hungry, and never be homeless, so it was time for him to go! That takes never go hungry,]

Beautiful Story

This was a beautiful book written by an incredible man. I recommend this to everyone.

great book

this book is so good heart wrenching and a wonderful story about a wonderful man. to be where he was and just see where he was and to see where he's at today is absolutely amazing

loved it an love all the info to

greatest books ever it's what made me wanna read your book are so inspiring

beautifully well-told story

the wonderful story. I could relate to so much of it. especially for the unfailing love that he had for his mother. looking forward to reading the next one. This is my second time reading it.

Good on you !

very good book. you need to read the boy called it first. very happy for this young man.