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
"This is sure to be popular among students and readers who await a sequel to A Child Called "It". Well recommended." (Library Journal)
"Great story"
I enjoyed this book. It does a great job in reminding everyone just how strong the human spirit is and how able we are to cope with overwhelming emotional trauma brought on by another human being.
"An ok book"
I first listened to the very descriptive first book of his, "A Child Called It." This book, "The Lost Boy" was more constructive and uplifting and I'd recommend this one over the other. They're both as one would think; stories of this child's awful situation.
Husband, father, nurse, geek culture affianado, tech junkie, late-blooming history lover, armchair theologist, Lego enthusiast, and follower of Christ.
"A heart wrenching true story"
The book provides eye opening child’s view of what life within the foster care system is like. Dave Peltzer is a huge supporter of foster parents and social workers, but that doesn’t change what a frightening reality it can be for a child. We’ve probably all heard comments towards a foster child along the lines of “what they really need is a good spanking” or “why aren’t they grateful for the people trying to help them?” This book helps us see the world from the child’s perspective.
While the narrator, Brian Keeler, is an adult he does a wonderful job conveying the simple emotions behind the words of the child. You feel David’s fears of his mother coming to take him and his joy when shown an act of kindness.
While full of sadness, this book is a wonderful story of hope! Above all, let this book inspire you to get involved! There are over 1500 children in my state alone looking for forever families. If you can’t open your home to one, be a support to someone else who does! And show a little compassion for social workers and the daunting tasks they face day after day. It’s a thankless job, but I thank God there are those willing to do it!
"Great!"
As hard as this is to listen, part of the "A Child Called It" it just goes to prove what terrible things can be endured. I can't imagine the life that he speaks of...... Makes you rethink your whole "imagined" hard life as a child. Great, and a lesson in life to be sure.
"not as good as the first book"
Confusing.. in the first book, didn't mom move away and leave him alone.. and wasn't the boy called it the brother?