A Heartfelt Review of A Child Called It: One Child’s Courage to Survive
Picture this: it’s bedtime in our chaotic home, and the night’s cacophony of giggles, tickles, and the occasional tantrum echoes down the hallway. After wrestling my three-year-old into pajamas and promising one more story, I found myself pulled to a book that had been sitting on my shelf for a while—A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer. Little did I know, this choice would bring our evening routine to a whole new level of emotion and discussion.
At first glance, this book is not what you’d typically expect for a bedtime read, especially when you have little ones who thrive on whimsical tales and happy endings. However, Pelzer’s harrowing yet inspiring story details the unimaginable abuse he endured during his childhood, painting the picture of a boy who had to navigate a world filled with neglect and torment. It’s a heavy topic, yet I felt drawn to it because, as parents, we sometimes need to talk about the importance of kindness and the harsh realities some children face.
As I began reading, I was surprised by how engaged my kids became with the story. It’s incredible how children’s curiosity often leads them to ask the most profound questions. My five-year-old’s gentle inquiries turned the reading experience into a discussion about empathy, love, and the importance of helping others. We talked about how lucky we are to have a warm home and plenty of food, contrasting that with Dave’s experiences of sleeping on a bare cot and finding sustenance in spoiled scraps.
While the book itself is a staggering testament to resilience, it unfolds without illustrations, relying solely on Pelzer’s poignant writing style. The emotional weight of his words held my children’s attention—there was a hushed reverence in the room as they absorbed the hardships Dave faced.
One particularly beautiful moment came when my little one asked, “Why didn’t anyone help him?” It was a question that hung in the air, evoking solemn thoughts but also highlighting the idea that we can all be advocates for kindness. It was a moment that sparked a valuable conversation about kindness and the responsibility we have to care for one another.
Of course, amidst the heaviness of the story, there were moments of warmth, too. My kids laughed when I tried to do voices for the different characters, especially for the supportive friendships Dave found even in the bleakest of circumstances.
I’ll be honest, this book might not be for every family. I’d recommend it for older children ready to discuss more complex themes—perhaps around ages 10 and up. It’s not your typical comforting bedtime story, but it can serve as a profound way to teach our kids about empathy and resilience. This book has certainly planted a seed for future discussions about kindness, compassion, and the importance of standing up for those who cannot stand up for themselves.
For us, it’s a book we will revisit during family discussions, blending real-world issues with our compassionate hearts. If you’re looking for something that transcends the usual bedtime fare and opens dialogues about human experience, A Child Called It is worth a read, even if it’s one you navigate cautiously.
In this chaotic world of parenting, it’s refreshing to find stories that remind us of both the struggles and triumphs of life, reassuring us that, even amid the chaos, love and hope endure. So grab a comfy blanket, pour a cup of tea, and prepare for an evening that will touch your heart.
Discover the inspiring journey of resilience and hope in A Child Called It. >>
