A Child Called "It" (Dave Pelzer, #1)

by Dave Pelzer

I came to despise the neighbors, my relatives and anybody else who had ever known me and the conditions under which I lived. Hate was all I had left. At the core of my soul, I hated myself more than anybody or anything. I came to believe that everything that happened to me or around me was my own fault because I had let it go on for so long.

This is more than a story of survival. It is a story of victory and celebration. Even in its darkest passages, the heart is unconquerable. It is important that the body survives, but it is more meaningful that the human spirit prevails.

no matter what lies in their past, they can overcome the dark side and press on to a brighter world.

We are beginning to hear more about child abuse. Movies and magazine articles on the subject are becoming more frequent, but cases are often sensationalized, and we are too far removed to understand the virtual reality and pain of the victim child. This book enlightens and educates. As we move with David through fear, loss, isolation, pain and rage to eventual hope, the dark world of the abused child becomes painfully clear.

I Never Knew I never knew how bad it was; I heard it did exist. I was appalled at this crime That robbed youth Of their “special” time. I never knew how bad it hurt; The bruises and scars aren’t seen. And why somewhere along life’s way, The brutality of abuse Has made you pay. I never knew how you felt; Your self-esteem so low. I only knew you crept away, And never let your feelings show. I never knew what I could do; That I could help somehow. That all you needed was a friend; Just someone to be your pal. But now I know that I can help; I can make a difference, too. I’ll stand with you; I’ll shout with you, And the rest can’t say, “I never knew.” Cindy M. Adams