A Child Called It: Reflection On The Good And Bad Of Abusive Childhood

A Child Called It tells the story of Dave Pelzer’s abuser childhood. Pelzer’s alcoholic mother abused him both mentally and psychically. The story begins in Daly City on March 5, 1973. David was late for school the next morning, after he had been beaten by his mother because he hadn’t done his chores in time. Catherine tells David that he should tell the nurses he “ran through the door.” David is then taken to the school nurse’s office and examined. The school nurse had known about David’s mother’s abuse for some time. The nurse was his safe place for some time, and it took him a long time to tell her the truth. All of the staff members at his school have heard about his beatings. They also know to refrain from reporting bad behavior because his mother will punish it. A police officer took him to the station after a brief discussion with his nurse, teachers and principle. David was initially terrified because he really believed he’d be sent to jail. But he then realized it would be better to live in his mother’s house, which was a madhouse. David Pelzer has been released from prison, the officer tells him.

Dave reflects back on his early childhood in the 1960s. It was only him, Ron, and Stan at this time. Stephen Pelzer worked long shifts as a firefighters and Catherine Roerve loved and respected him. They kept many animals, such as dogs, cats and fish aquariums, along with a tortoise. Dave was aware that his mother always cooked amazing meals, but she did so on the nights when his father was at home. The family had never owned a tree smaller than 8 feet. They spent a lot time and energy decorating their Christmas tree. The family drove around the neighborhood to compare their house with the neighbors’. Stephen would work 24-hour shifts. As a result, Mother would take Dave and his brothers on day-trips. Dave remembered that Gate Park was a frequent destination for these trips. Dave’s springtime picnics were always with his family. Mother would cook a meal for the entire family. Dave recalls these as his happiest moments, but the Russian River is his favorite place on earth. The river was the perfect place to spend time with family. The river was the place where he felt most safe and warm. The punishment was brutal. Mother severely beats Dave’s arm. She brings him to hospital, but says that he rolled out from bed. He didn’t want to talk, but the doctor could tell that it wasn’t an accidental injury. Mother always made up excuses for Dave’s bruises and injuries, and called him a ‘bad boy. His mother made him repeat the first grade despite his good grades and more “happy faces” than anyone else in class. Dave had learned that his mother was less harsh with his siblings and father present. Stephen did little to shield Dave. He knew of the abuses, but he didn’t want to fight Mother.