David Pelzer

Though Pelzer tells his own story, the book reads more like a memoir than an autobiography. Pelzer gives many thoughts and feelings and, though the historical events appear accurate, that is secondary to Pelzer's own internal journey.

In the beginning of this account, Pelzer is an adolescent boy. He lives like an unwanted pet in his mother's garage. For reasons he fails to understand, his mother treats him with utmost cruelty. Through this, though, he maintains an impressive will to survive. Through stabbings and poisonings, he vows he will live to see another day. Sometimes, though, in the cold and dark of the garage, he prays for release even in death.

After a particularly violent attack, Child's Protective Services removes Pelzer from his mother's home and places him in foster care. There he learns, like a child, to bath and dress himself. He remains social challenged for...