I read this book when I was very young (not advised) and it literally changed my outlook on life, even at such a young age.

The author is Dave Pelzer and the book is rumoured to be based on a true story of the horrific abuse suffered (possibly by Dave, but possibly by somebody else) as a child at the hands of parents. The abuse depicted in the book is truly horrific, including serious burns, broken bones, and hospital visits. The conduct essentially amounted to torture of a child, and in some places, is harrowing to read about, especially so for a child. It was probably somewhat irresponsible of my teachers at the time to allow me to read it, and I have no doubt it wouldn't be allowed today, but I'm glad in a way that I did read it.

It really helped me to understand the suffering some go through, especially some who are wholly and completely innocent, as any child is. One of the saddest books I have ever read without any doubt, but also, one of the most gripping and overall enticing reads I can ever suggest to anybody, so if you haven't read it yet, please add it to your list and make time. :)