Once in a while I will pick up a book that makes me wonder why some people bother having children.  WHAT WE LOST is one of those books.  Dale Peck captures his father’s coming-of-age story with honesty and individuality.

Living in a small home with eight siblings, an alcoholic father, and a physically and verbally abusive mother, Dale Peck, Sr. does what he can to avoid conflict.  However, it isn’t easy.  At school, it is much of the same; his smaller size makes him an ideal target for the bullies.  In the middle of the night, Dale’s father kidnaps him, but this “kidnapping” is about to change his life. 

Dale finds himself on his uncle’s farm.  He works hard, but for the first time in his life he experiences love, respect, and proper discipline.  He blossoms in ways he never would have expected.  However, it may not be meant to last as his mother arrives at the farm wanting him to return.  It is up to Dale whether he goes to reunite with his siblings or stays where he has found a better life. 

What an absolutely mesmerizing story.  The subject matter isn’t easy; Dale Sr.’s life was harsh and nothing is glossed over in this book.  I cannot imagine having your mother say she wishes you dead, being beaten for trivial things, and having a father who drinks it all away instead of sticking up for his children.  What is most amazing is that Dale Sr. survived!