A Child Called 'It' cover art

A Child Called 'It'

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A Child Called 'It'

By: David Pelzer
Narrated by: Brian Keeler
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About this listen

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
Abuse Dysfunctional Families Dysfunctional Relationships Parenting & Families Relationships Inspiring Biography Child Development

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Critic reviews

"Pelzer's portrayal of domestic tyranny and eventual escape is unforgettable." ( School Library Journal)
All stars
Most relevant
I am part way through my foster carer preparation and decided it was the right time to expose myself to the horrors of child abuse. It is indeed an account of survival and strong will.
Peppered with almost nonchalant descriptions of patterned abuse, so awful, I almost cried. However, Dave's hope is infectious and I started to feel more comfortable with the theme as the book continued. I enjoyed the final chapters and Dave's brief account of his abuse now seen through the eyes of an adult.

Rich and compelling

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Would you listen to A Child Called 'It' again? Why?

This is one of the best Audio books,I've read
Once I started I couldn't put it down, from beginning to end. I've read the book, but a pal of mine said if you got audio books then download it. I cried through some of it,so that's me hooked, I would definitely recommend it to anyone who has got audible to download and read it.


The boy called it.

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I've loved reading this book, but as I struggle to see, I've found listening to "a child called it" just as good on here, well worth listening to or reading as you listen to it!! x

child called it

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narration good, pretty heavy but a really important talking point. not all if these stories end well and we need to learn the signs.

pretty heavy stuff but a must listen

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I was loathed to read this book because I hate child abuse, but tried it here as an audio book and pleased I did. It's oration is nice and smooth in contrast to the horrid behaviour David Pelzer endured. Trigger alert for Survivors on some parts. Great listen!

Eye watering.

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