"A Child Called 'It' is an emotionally gripping memoir written by Dave Pelzer, recounting the dark and traumatic events of his childhood at the hands of his abusive mother. Pelzer's account delves deep into the physical and emotional abuse he endured, making it a challenging yet necessary read for everyone who wishes to understand the depths of human resilience.
The book chronicles Pelzer's heartbreaking journey from a cherished and happy child to a neglected and tortured one. Pelzer's writing is brutally honest and unfiltered, allowing readers to truly comprehend the extent of the torment he experienced. His vivid descriptions paint a haunting picture of his daily life, from being systematically starved and forced to consume repulsive leftovers, to enduring merciless beatings and being confined in the basement. These brutal experiences shock and devastate readers, yet Pelzer's unwavering determination to survive shines through the darkness, inspiring a sense of hope.
One of the most poignant aspects of this memoir is the portrayal of the complex relationship between Pelzer and his mother. The author delves into his mother's troubled past, offering a nuanced understanding of her actions while never justifying or excusing her abuse. This exploration adds depth to the narrative and prompts readers to contemplate the damaging impact of generational trauma.
Available on Audible
Moreover, the book exposes the failures of the very system that was meant to protect Pelzer. From indifferent teachers to social workers who turned a blind eye, Pelzer sheds light on the countless missed opportunities for intervention. It serves as a powerful call to action, imploring society to be more vigilant and proactive in identifying and preventing child abuse.
While the graphic nature of A Child Called 'It' undoubtedly makes it a challenging read, its importance cannot be overstated. Dave Pelzer's courage in sharing his story raises awareness about the profound horrors of child abuse and offers solace to those who have endured similar experiences. It is a book that will leave an indelible impact on readers, compelling them to contemplate the power of resilience and the crucial necessity of safeguarding children."
What are readers saying?
"A Child Called It" is a memoir written by Dave Pelzer, recounting his traumatizing experiences of abuse and neglect during his childhood. The book has received mixed reviews from readers, with some praising its raw and emotional storytelling, while others criticize its graphic content and writing style.
Positive reviews highlight the honesty and authenticity in Pelzer's storytelling. Readers appreciate the author's ability to vividly portray his childhood experiences, evoking strong emotions and inspiring empathy. They commend Pelzer for his courage in sharing such a deeply personal and harrowing story, and credit the book for raising awareness about the issue of child abuse. Some readers find hope and inspiration in the resilience and eventual escape of the author from his abusive home.
On the other hand, negative reviews criticize the book for its graphic descriptions of abuse, deeming it too distressing for some readers. The level of detail provided is seen as unnecessary and excessive. Some readers also express disappointment with the author's writing style, finding it simplistic and lacking sophistication.
There is also skepticism about the accuracy of the events presented in the book among some reviewers. They question the credibility of Pelzer's memories, suggesting that certain parts may be embellished or exaggerated for dramatic effect. This leads to a sense of distrust towards the author and his motivations for sharing his story.
Overall, "A Child Called It" elicits a variety of responses from readers. While some appreciate its raw and emotional storytelling, others are put off by its graphic content and writing style. Regardless, the book remains an important work that sheds light on the issue of child abuse and its lasting impact.
AChildCalledIt SurvivorStory InspiringReads