A Child Called 'It': One Child's Courage to Survive : Book Review

"A Child Called 'It'" is an incredibly heart-wrenching memoir penned by Dave Pelzer which offers a haunting account of his traumatic experiences of child abuse at the hands of his own mother. Pelzer's unsettling narrative takes readers on an emotional journey through his childhood, vividly portraying the unimaginable physical and emotional cruelty he endured, while also highlighting the incredible strength and resilience he displayed in such trying circumstances.

Pelzer's writing is raw and powerful, laying bare the brutalities he suffered with unflinching honesty. His ability to tell his story in such a poignant and evocative manner allows readers to truly empathize with his pain and fear, leading to a gripping and emotionally charged reading experience. The author's strong voice and vivid descriptions bring his harrowing experiences to life, painting a vivid picture of the deeply traumatic circumstances he faced.

What sets this memoir apart is the glimpse into Pelzer's indomitable inner strength and unwavering determination to survive. Despite the continuous physical abuse, he manages to find solace and hope in fleeting moments, clinging onto the love he once knew as a child. The resilience and courage that the author displays are truly inspiring and serve as a testament to the incredible strength of the human spirit, even in the darkest of circumstances.

The narrative structure of the book further heightens the power of Pelzer's story. Divided into chapters that reflect different stages of his abuse, the book effectively captures the progression of his experiences, allowing readers to witness his transformation from an optimistic child to a broken teenager. This structure effectively portrays the profound and lasting impact of the abuse inflicted by his mother and the long and arduous journey towards healing.

In conclusion, "A Child Called 'It'" is a deeply emotional and eye-opening memoir that sheds light on the horrors of child abuse. Dave Pelzer's story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the urgent need to protect and advocate for those who are unable to speak up for themselves. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex dynamics of child abuse and the profound strength of the human spirit.

What are readers saying?

"A Child Called 'It'" by Dave Pelzer is a poignant and haunting memoir that recounts the harrowing childhood abuse the author endured at the hands of his mentally disturbed mother. The reception of the book has been diverse, with some readers praising its raw honesty and powerful message, while others criticize its writing style and lack of depth.

Many readers commend Pelzer for his bravery in sharing his story and shining a light on the issue of child abuse. They find the book to be a heartbreaking but necessary read, as it raises awareness about the prevalence and impact of such abuse. Readers appreciate Pelzer's resilience and strength in overcoming such traumatic experiences and find it deeply inspiring. Some also commend the book for reminding them of the importance of safeguarding children's well-being and for encouraging action against abuse.

However, there are readers who express disappointment with the book's writing style. They criticize Pelzer for his simplistic language and repetitive storytelling, which they feel detract from the seriousness of the subject matter. Some find the writing to be too direct and lacking in nuance, resulting in a sense of detachment from the emotions of the story. Additionally, a few reviewers question the accuracy and reliability of the memoir, suggesting that Pelzer may have embellished or exaggerated certain details to create a more gripping narrative.

Overall, "A Child Called 'It'" elicits strong reactions from readers, with some deeply moved by its portrayal of abuse and others left unsatisfied with its execution. Despite its flaws, many believe the book serves as an important platform for discussion and increased awareness surrounding child abuse. It sheds light on the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for healing, serving as a testament to the power of survival.