A Child called "it" and The lost boy

David J. Pelzer

Cover of A Child called "it" and The lost boy

A Child called "it" and The lost boy

Age Rating, Reading Level & Content Guide

One Child's Courage to Survive

by David J. Pelzer

Reading Level 6 Intense (Lvl 4) Ages 9-12 Heads Up

The text is written at a 6th grade reading level, the subject matter is intended for middle graders (ages 9–12), and the content is intense and may include graphic or distressing scenes.

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About This Book

Some stories are so powerful, they change the way we see the world. This is the story of one boy’s courage against unimaginable hardships at home. It shows how hope can shine even in the darkest times—and why standing up matters.

Themes

FamilySurvivalResilienceAbuseChildhood Trauma

Quick Assessment

This book is a gripping and emotional portrayal of child abuse and survival, based on true events. It is suitable for mature middle-grade readers (ages 9-12) who can handle intense themes of family violence and trauma. Parents should be aware that the story contains difficult subject matter including abuse and family dysfunction, but it ultimately conveys messages of resilience and hope.

For Parents

Content Intensity

Level 4 — Intense
Gentle Mild Moderate Intense Very Intense

Heavy themes explored in depth. War, death, abuse addressed directly.

Content Flags

Emotional: Abuse Emotional: Family Violence Emotional: Trauma
Data confidence: standard

Was our "Intense" content intensity rating accurate for this book?

Reading Insights

Hook Factor

1/10

A steady, thoughtful read that rewards patient readers.

Discussion Potential

2/10

A lighter read — great for independent enjoyment.

Book DNA

Multi-dimensional content fingerprint

Vocabulary Level
5
Emotional Weight
8
Theme Richness
8
World Scope
1
Data Confidence
7

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Details

Book Length

294 pages
ISBN
9780739400616
Pages
294
Publisher
Health Communications
Published
1995
Type
Nonfiction

Genres

Subjects

Pelzer, David JAbused ChildrenCaliforniaDaly CityChildren of AlcoholicsAbusive MothersFamily RelationshipsFamily ViolenceFoster Home Care