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)

Touched my heart!

Your story brought me back to my painful childhood. Your story is extremely well written. I felt every hit,slap and punch. Thank you for sharing your story.
God shower you and your family with continue blessings.

Triumphant

At times a difficult read but truly a story of a child’s capabilities to survive against all odds.

Important to read and know how bad child abuse is.

This book is very touching. It shows perspective, a new appreciation for how good we have it. The abuse this little boy went through is unbelievable. I highly recommend this story to all who have gone through any kind of abuse.

Heart wrenching

Brought up lots of emotions and memories for me, I admire your courage and strength.

Heart Wrenching

Wow. This is a very well told story. It is absolutely heartbreaking all this man had to go through as a boy. The courage he has to tell his story is amazing. As someone who works in Child Welfare, my heart breaks for all the children that have to experience any of this!

The Definition of Faith

His belief that he would get through his abuse. I don’t know how his abuser slept at night, but apparently lacking a conscience.

Awareness & say something

Sorry that happened to you🥲
When anyone sees something they should say something. Get involved.

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.

The devil hides in plain sight

Tragic and despicable. I felt intense anger and wished I could have been in this boys life to help him in the ways others failed. I would liked to have known more about any repercussions for the mother and father, if he has a relationship with his siblings etc. maybe these updates are in the other book. I just hate thinking he suffered like this and there was no justice for him. I pray to God above that should there ever be a child in a situation of abuse in my presence that I’m discerning enough to recognize it and stop it.

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.