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  • A Child Called 'It'

  • By: David Pelzer
  • Narrated by: Brian Keeler
  • Length: 3 hrs and 46 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (256 ratings)

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A Child Called 'It' cover art

A Child Called 'It'

By: David Pelzer
Narrated by: Brian Keeler
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Summary

Dave Pelzer was brutally abused as a child by his emotionally unstable, alcoholic mother. She considered him a slave - no longer a boy, but an "it".

He was physically and mentally tortured and starved. The outside world knew nothing of the nightmare he experienced behind closed doors, and his father was aware of the abuse but turned to denial and alcohol. The abuse only fueled a determination to survive and become stronger.

He eventually found amazing strength from his experiences: both in himself and other people.

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)

What listeners say about A Child Called 'It'

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Heartbreaking

Such a sad story, written well. Had a year in my eye. Definitely a recommended read.

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The truth

.....for those who ask the questions. this example of the hell too many american...global...children live within, you have the answers to 1) why do we need a death penalty and 2) why do children under 12 commit suicide. we can't afford to house child abusers in prison...the money should be used for early intervention, removal and a new life. Society is ignorant to just how many kids are in a living hell.
...heartbreaking....

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such courage and resilianxe

i read this book many years ago and have now listened to it being told. its the best book ive ever read. it brought tears to my eyes. ishall go on to listenvto Dave Pelzers other books that i have also read

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Heartbreaking

It's frightening how evil someone could be. His mother went from being perfect to a horrible evil bastard. It takes a very strong soul to come out the other end of that an flourish in life, fair play. listening to this will make you hope his mother is suffering an eternity of horrifying pain. It's awful to think that this happens children every day.

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so sad and unbelievable but my god is it good x

so sad what happened to dave , no child should suffer any things like this im so proud of how he has .anaged to pull through and live his life s he has x well done dave

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heartbreaking story

very hard to hear at some points but a very good insight into the life of an abuse victim. feel so sorry for this guy. great book. would 100% recommend.

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review on book David Pelzer.

I have enjoyed it very much I will be getting other books by David Pelzer and will be telling others to read.

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inspirational and moving

finished it in 1 day, couldn't stop listing. inspired and moved by this story of survival

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Utter sadness

A most difficult story to hear but one that everyone person should. Knowing David went on, not only to survive, but thrive in life and help other children makes this story all the more compelling.

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Amazing

I love this book, its a tough listen but great. The author is brilliant, so inspirational

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