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Synopsis
This story begins and ends with a photograph taken when I was two years old. Finding it was like discovering that I really did exist after all.
It was as if someone was saying ‘No, it wasn’t all in your imagination, that childhood really did happen, and it happened to you.’
Brought up in
Expelled from school at the age of 14, Peter’s life of petty crime landed him in Borstal –and exposed him to yet more sickening abuse. Then, years later, a chance meeting with a social worker led to his discovery of a photograph - a portrait, taken by Lord Snowdon, of a toddler dressed in rags.
It was an image that had shocked the world. The boy in the picture was Peter. Unloved is a harrowing account of a shattered childhood, told by a man who has finally found the courage to speak out. This is his story.
Reviews
Customer Review: 18 August 2011
Reviewer: Julieanne Jones/Manchester
'I was brought up in Ardwick, Manchester, we were as poor as church mice. I never seemed to have elastic in my knickers and had one pair of socks which were always a dirty grey and falling down (much like my draws). I had to go for sun ray treatment as I wasn''t developing, but do you know what - despite that I was so loved and I knew it and I was a scruffy loving little girl. How a human being could go thru life without love is impossible to imagine. Please Peter let us all know how you are. '
Customer Review: 05 May 2011
Reviewer: Sylvia Guy
'"Hi,I just finished reading your book,I found a lot of myself in what you went through as I myself survived.I was unable to continue any form of relationship with my family. I have my own 4 children, now like your self I have hangups due to my childhood."'
Customer Review: 16 July 2010
Reviewer: Maria E
'Thank you for the amazing story, i am so sorry to hear so many things you lived tru, but above that you came tru it and wrote this great story.I would of love to see more of the picture you mention in the book, and how are you doing and your family. '
Customer Review: 31 May 2010
Reviewer: Melanie Riches
'I dont do much reading, but this book was brilliant, I could''nt put it down. How is Peter doing now, what he up to, what does he look like, still like Davis Essex?'
Customer Review: 29 January 2010
Reviewer: Lyn from Ontario, Canada
'I took Peter''s book with me on a vacation and couldn''t put it down until I finished reading it. Very well written. I''d like to hear more about how Peter is doing now that the book has been released and if he has plans of writing another one.'
Customer Review: 30 March 2009
Reviewer: Jerry
'I agree i thought Unloved was brilliant I also want to hear more about Peter please leave a review and tell us all when we can have another book by you Peter Best wishes Jerry '
Customer Review: 17 March 2009
Reviewer: lyn
'hi peter, this is my 3rd entry now. i have just finished reading the triology of dave pelzer, a sad story indeed. Peter i mentioned in one of my enteries that you should write a follow up book, perhaps a insight into your sucess at happiness with your family. I hope you are doing ok. Leave a message for us reviewers please, let us know how you are doing. happiness to you always. x'
Customer Review: 29 December 2008
Reviewer: G Paterson
'Not other book has had such an impact on me. A story of survival that I could not put down. Tremendous courage in tremendous adversity.'
Customer Review: 19 November 2008
Reviewer: sweetheart1604
'I totally agree, this book touched me. I spent hours a day reading it and finished the book within a weekend. I would love to see more pictures from when you were younger. I hope you live a happy life.'
Customer Review: 30 March 2008
Reviewer: GERARDINWA
I MUST SAY THAT I LOVE THIS BOOK AND WOULD LOVE TO SEE THE OTHER PHOTOS TAKEN DURING YOUR CHILD HOOD I AM ALREADY LOKING FOR THE PAPERS FROM THE 60'S GOOD LUCK WITH THE REST OF YOUR LIFE GERARD
Customer Review: 28 March 2008
Reviewer: MD
As I read your story I was transported in time to my own childhood. It seems we are a similar age and grew up at the same time. I have always thought that in my childhood were some horrors that children should not have to suffer, such as sexual abuse, dir, poverty, etc., but for all that I was privileged to have many shining moments of true friendship, and love. Having read your story I now realise that as bad as things seemd there were others worse off than Me and I applaud your courage and dignity. I too left my home as soon as I could, married young and had one child who I swore to love and protect in every way, I am proud to say that I brought up a beautiful young woman who is a very close friend as well as daughter and who in turn has given me 2 beautiful grandchildren. I am now married, like you for the second time, to a man who adores me although it took a long time for me to accept that I might be deserving of such love. There is hope for the future, even from the blackest start. Your story is inspiring and wonderful and I wish you all the very best for your future. MD
Customer Review: 21 March 2008
Reviewer: DL
From the moments, i saw the coverpage, i just could not just leave it on the shelves... after reading... Peter showed me the darkest side of how people around us might be living and yet unknown to us... thanks peter for sharing it.. hope the best be with u always...
Customer Review: 09 March 2008
Reviewer: mick williams
not many books get to you but this one does to get to where he is now,i congatulate him. to be content is a gift. i wish you well peter roche
Customer Review: 31 January 2008
Reviewer: jane
hi peter i have not only read your book out of interest but also to help me come to terms with my own child hood. i didnt live in poverty but the physical abuse and humiliation was the same. why did they have me? i constantly used to ask. i still dont know the answer. i could relate so much to your life so much so it was like talking to someone who shared my experiences. i talk a lot to myself about it all as i dont really want to talk to anyone else about it afterall it wasnt exactly an achievement.[except if you can call the body,s natural way of survival kicking in an achievement.] you are the same age as me peter and i suppose people chose not to pay any attentions to your situation from your background the same as they did from mine. people will tell me now how life was cruel to me then but why didnt they tell me then? answers i am still looking for. thankyou for talking to me through your book i feel like i know you so well
Customer Review: 30 December 2007
Reviewer: Leelee
A truely sad sad story...i was gripped from start to finish and my eyes were filled with tears alot of the time. I know that Peter is not the only child to have suffered at the hands of brutal parents but i hope that Peter telling his story may have given other kids who are now adults the courage to come forward and tell their story to protect the children of our future.
Customer Review: 24 December 2007
Reviewer: ben
An incredible story and one that reaches out to your heart. I`m not a avid reader by any means but I read this book in 24 hours. Hold your head high Peter Roche, you are truly an inspiration to others. I wish you, Lisa and your kids a happy future.
Customer Review: 21 December 2007
Reviewer: sue
Peter a truely wonderful book. Thank you for haveing the courage and strengh to write this book. These stories that need to be told. I wish someone would of been there for you my dear little boy Peter. ((((((((hugs to your inner boy))))))))))) Keep writing you have such talent and one that needs singing from the roofs. Your story is an inspiration and im always amazed at the human spirit coming through such adversity. Would love to see those other pics you wrote about in your book ..
Customer Review: 10 December 2007
Reviewer: Lily T
The most touching account of childhood abuse and neglect told with care and warmth.Peter Roche is a remarkable man of rare quality.He should work with needy children.Who knows better than he.Well done in telling such difficult story. Good luck.
Customer Review: 25 November 2007
Reviewer: LAH
Peter, I could not put the book down until I read it cover to cover. Your story amazed me. I hope you have found some sense of peace in your life. You are an amazing man and im sure a wonderful father.
Customer Review: 22 November 2007
Reviewer: benten6572
what can i say one of the best books i have read for a long time. reminded me of my upbringing and beatings by my stepfather. i cried at the memory. i wish peter well for the future!!!!!!!
Customer Review: 09 November 2007
Reviewer: teenager reader
Peter roche you are amazing and have survived more than anyone i have read about, you are so brave. When im older i want to be someone to help people who are poor and getting abused to like u did.I only wish for peace in this world not war.You have shown me bravery and courage, you are a survived man peter roche.
Customer Review: 08 November 2007
Reviewer: Mike
Peter, I have just finished your book. I have to tell you I have the utmost respect for the man you have become. It's often difficult reading, sickening at times. I have no idea what made your parents into the vile people they were and can only hope that god has found forgiveness for them. I wish you and your family all the best.
Customer Review: 07 November 2007
Reviewer: Christina x x x
dear peter I have just finished reading your book-unloved. I must admitt i dont cry very easily,but i did while reading your story. I just wished i could have been around at that time to give you a big cuddle,and to explain not all people are bad. I didnt have a very good childhood,but now as a mum of two beautiful kids,i make sure i never make the mistakes my parents did,my kids are my world.Id like to send you lots of love and hugs from a mum,to you peter.It makes me very happy to know that you have a good partner now and are living finally a life where you wont have to go through things alone,well done peter for coming through all this alive.
Customer Review: 07 November 2007
Reviewer: lyn
hi peter and other readers, this is my second review, after reading your book i could not just put it down, i felt the need to do research into the nspcc and the picture on the front of the book. i managed to find the gallary with the said photo and as you said it is going for 2 grand, i cannot get my head around the whole thing. i also managed to find the photo of your on the swings in the duffle coat. up until reading your book i gave to the nspcc but i have since cancelled my subscription and now give to another childrens charity, one that does not pay too much attention to glossy advertising. hope you are keeping well and taking great suport and comfort from the many readers you have touched. you have brought attention of this situation to many people i also think that we who read stories brave, as many people say 'no i dont want to know it upsets me' WE NEED TO KNOW AND STOP IT. i wished for one of the really big superstars to hold a banner for the kids today getting abused, a really big one is needed. i also think that you should do a follow up book peter, bring this to bigger attention and do another book only call this one, peter roche LOVED. good luck you x
Customer Review: 05 November 2007
Reviewer: eleri williams
just finished this heart wrenching book was in tears on many a chapter i wish you great succsses in your writing look forward witn anticipation for your next book
Customer Review: 02 November 2007
Reviewer: Jan-Marie
You are a truly amazing man.You endured so much and yet still came out the other side a good father and kind man. I can't believe that, though other people would have hated the NSPCC and Miss Zils you didn't say anything to her because you didn't want to hurt her feelings! I wish you a brilliant and happy life and thank you for giving me the hope to continue mine.
Customer Review: 27 October 2007
Reviewer: Lynda Anne
I found you truly amazing,how you survived the terrible things that happened to you,I admire you for coping with all the terrible years of your young life,I read this book on my holiday and you moved me to tears most of the time,I truly hope you are happy with your wife and children,you are one incredible man,and should be very very proud of yourself,be happy.
Customer Review: 26 October 2007
Reviewer: moyra
Peter you have survived through all the physical trauma and more importantly the mental trauma of a very harrowing life, your a true star, thanks for sharing your story and i hope many in authority can learn lessons through it, god bless you and your children and Lisa
Customer Review: 25 October 2007
Reviewer: Chris
The sheer desolation and isolation of growing up poor in South London, born to Irish immigrant parents oozes from every page. Peter Roche has had the courage to tell a story of what it is to be in the frame of the authorities, but only as a picture. Poverty is, of itself, brutal, and living in poverty creates brutality that passes for normal in the lives of so many. For all the voices that have not yet spoken, that have not yet found the courage to explain what the NSPCC and Social Services saw and then did nothing, Peter Roche has a story that will give them meaning until they find their own courage. I read that book in one sitting, with great care. And then I wept as the silence of all the other Peter Roche's screamed at me.
Customer Review: 25 October 2007
Reviewer: Caroline
This is a story that HAD to be told and it is testment to the author that he survived to tell it. The lack of bitterness and the acceptance that nothing should be easy has given Peter a perspective on his childhood that belies the innocent eyes that look out from the 'famous' picture. A dreadful reality, a wonderful story, a heart wrenching read. I loved it!
Customer Review: 23 October 2007
Reviewer: julie manchester
I've just finished reading this book and was so saddened to think that a parent could treat their own babies and children in the cruel, sadistic way that they did. Peter for you to survive not only your childhood but the years that followed, show that tho you were fighting your demons and struggling coping with depression, you got thru it ..... you're there for your own children who i'm certain will know that you are a decent, loving, fair kind man. you are an inspiration.... a SURVIVOR! I hope you live the rest of your life as happy as you deserve to be and surrounded by a family that love and admire you..... i think the people that have read your book , myself included, certainly admire and wish the best for you, your wife, children and future grandchildren ! god bless you all x
Customer Review: 21 October 2007
Reviewer: LM
Well done peter for this book, i know it would have taken alot for you to write this,to bring up the past is a horrible thing to have to do,as you say the mind tends to block things out, i am glad that you have finally got the help you much needed in both your personal & family life's. i belive that what dosn't break us makes us stronger! I wish you & your family all the best of health, comfort & happiness in the future.
Customer Review: 13 October 2007
Reviewer: frances h
I cant explain how much this book afected me i could actualy put myself in the places you discribed peter . i grew up in lambeth and played on THAT DUMP! and even in the houses behind the dump i got a good few things from there too. the hardest bit was imagining someone sleeping there i remember the adventure playground and th small shop you talk about i would love to have talked to you. a fantastic book peter but one i wish you never had to write good luck in the future god bless x
Customer Review: 10 October 2007
Reviewer: Keeley Abberley
I have just finished reading your book and felt compelled to somehow reach out and say thank you for sharing such a truly magnificent and truthful account of what life was and still is to some point like for you. Peter, you may not believe it, but you are an amazing man with the strenght and courage of ten men. I always wanted to do a social care course and reading your book has made me so much more determined to help children who suffer everyday at the hands of there parents and other adults in there life. Peter, whatever you do in life, you will always be able to hold your head high and be proud of not only the man, but the father and husband that you are. If only everyman were as brave, kind and honest as you, the world would be a better place.
Customer Review: 07 October 2007
Reviewer: Ollie S - lives in chichester west sussex
I really enjoyed reading "unloved." it gave a tear to my eye in some places of the book. I would of hated to be in Borstal, especially if they treated peter in that kind of sickening abuse. Any, i am on the last chapter "Answers". So i better go and read it! thatnk you! wahey! BEST BOOK!
Customer Review: 06 October 2007
Reviewer: Rosie
What a compelling story. It was heart-breaking to read of the abuse and suffering Peter Roche suffered at the hands of his parents. A brave decision to bare his soul and again bring to life, those painful memories of his childhood. May this part of your life continue to be loving and happy with your wife Lisa and your children, Peter....you totally deserve it.
Customer Review: 03 October 2007
Reviewer: liz d
Dear Peter, After seeing you on television I knew I had to read your book. I am numb with the emotions that are going around in my head, after finishing your book, thankyou for sharing something totally unimaginable, I only wish you hadn't of had to write it and I wish you and your family all the luck and success in the future x
Customer Review: 02 October 2007
Reviewer: Beverley
This book has been passed around and read by all my friends and family. We all are talking about Peter these days and greatful that he shared his life with all of us, this is a 'must read' book. Impossible to put down. All the best to Peter Roche.
Customer Review: 02 October 2007
Reviewer: chelsea
This book is definitely in the top 5 of the most compelling, brutal yet painfully truthful books i have ever read. As soon as i saw it i knew this wouldn't be your usual cinderella story. I loved the picture used as the front cover as it is tear jerking when you find out it was actually peter roche when he was little. I would recommend this passionate book to anyone. It gives the harsh truth of london, and how unkind people can be. I really respect peter roche and many others who have been through similer. thankyou for writing this fascinating book!
Customer Review: 01 October 2007
Reviewer: Robert Dennis
A rare insight into a dark and chilling world. My only wish is that you didn't have this story to tell. You have my utmost respect.You deserve a lot more and i hope your book provides it.
Customer Review: 28 September 2007
Reviewer: GL
A case study of the consequences of inaction and lack of professionalism in education, social services and child charities in the last decades of the 20th century. This book made me wince at the emotional and physical pain interwoven in almost every incident. The anger and despair felt by the author is palpable. It would be nice to think that this book could not be written in twenty years time - shame on us if it is.
Customer Review: 28 September 2007
Reviewer: Jane McMahon Belfast
Peter i read your book in a couple of days, i couldnt put it down. My mum has read it also. You are a true inspiration and should be very proud of yourself and your book was wonderfully written. I read books all the time and have never written a review before but i really wanted to get in touch with you to congratulate you on your strength of character. I am a mother myself and even though my children mean the world to me im going to show them how much they are loved every single day of their lives, after reading your book. Every parent should read your book. I hope you have a best seller on your hands and you get the success you deserve. I wish I could hug that little boy. I hope you and your family be very happy from now on
Customer Review: 23 September 2007
Reviewer: lyn
how very sad i felt reading your book, i was born in the 1960's and raised in east london. i kept trying to imagine what i was doing at the same times as you, silly really i was in another world to you. i wanted to put my hands in the book and cuddle you, feed you and cloth you, even now writing this my eyes are watering. i have read many of memior books but never have i read one as bad as yours. you sound an excellent father and im glad you have a good wife. i hope you can feel the love from all the people that have read your book, i only wish it was something that you didnt have to write in the first place. bless you. x
Customer Review: 21 September 2007
Reviewer: AS
Peter you are amazing! You have SURVIVED with dignity and integrity. I hope you believe that. I admire your courage and devotion to the family you were brought up with. They do not deserve this, but I understand they belonged to you. Your book moved and repulse me at the same time, but my admiration of your character and resilience both as man and boy never waned. I work with vulnerable families every day, I hope we do not get it so wrong these days and can make a difference to childrens lives. You have enforced in me the voice of the child. If only someone had talked and more importantly listened to you. I wish you never had this story to tell but thankyou for sharing it with me.
Customer Review: 20 September 2007
Reviewer: Angela R.
This book is by far the most compelling,emotional,cant-put-down book that i have ever read. It moved me almost to tears. Peter Roch is a true inspiration to us all.
Customer Review: 19 September 2007
Reviewer: Lucinda Steele Casey
Your story has both touched and haunted my thoughts since reading it. I have so many questions I would like to ask you, but in the end I think the courage in which you have come through your horrific childhood is beyond inspiring. I sincerely hope that by wrighting the book you have managed to air some deamons and that has in some way has improved your life.
Customer Review: 18 September 2007
Reviewer: S. Watson
I have read your book, and I think you are such a fantastic man to not let your childhood effect the way you feel about your children. I my self was an unloved child with nothing, and I always make sure I provide for my children. Why you were all left to live in those conditions is beyond belief, but it just proves that WE CAN ALL BREAK THE CYCLE IF WE WANT TOO! Take care and good luck for the future.
Customer Review: 18 September 2007
Reviewer: Sheila Nicholas
Peter, I got from your book an insight to young people who go off the rails. I would find it difficult to imagine your experiences without reading your account. Maybe it should be mandatory reading for people in positons of power. I found it very moving, and got a real sense of your despair and only living for the moment. But ultimately a tale of hope for us all. All good wishes to you. Sheila.
Customer Review: 17 September 2007
Reviewer: D Jeffery
I can't believe this kind of abuse was going on while I, myself, was growing up in such a caring and loving home. I really don't know how he survived this 'upbringing' to tell his story. A very moving and emotional read. Excellent
Customer Review: 15 September 2007
Reviewer: j brown
Have just finished reading this book i can't believe no-one helped this family,The things he went through is just unamaginable hes a true hero for surviving this appaulling life style, my heart goes out to him and his family all the best in the future.
Customer Review: 15 September 2007
Reviewer: Tiina
First of all, thank you for sharing your story, Peter. I could not put the book down once I started. What probably touched me the most is the fact that despite all that you went through, you were able to end that circle of violence. You are an amazing human being. You of all people have earned your happiness. From the bottom of my heart, I wish you well.
Customer Review: 13 September 2007
Reviewer: N Breen
Excellent read, could not put the book down.
Customer Review: 13 September 2007
Reviewer: Anita Howarth
this is my first book im 40 and have never really felt the need to read lol Peters story is horrendous,i cant even imagine how he felt or stil feels sbout his childhood and his fight to keep his depression at a level to live his adult life to the full.his wife and children must be so proud of their father,ur a credit to yrself... a fantastic read i couldnt put his book down thank you peter for sharing yr life x
Customer Review: 13 September 2007
Reviewer: carole hesford
I have just finished reading this book and the one thing that comesacross to me is just how very corrupt these charities are. there was help for Peter and his family but it was not given to them. he was used to bring money into the charity buy then discarded of. The whole social services system and NSPCC needs someone decent to organise and run them. Peter yu can be very proud of yourself ultimately you won the battle over sad previous life which was no fault of your own.
Customer Review: 12 September 2007
Reviewer: Patsy
I find it so hard to believe this sort of thing happened in London in the 1960/70s - heartbreaking!
Customer Review: 11 September 2007
Reviewer: Lis W
Couldn't put this book down until I'd finished it. My greatest admiration for Peter Roche, who could have ended up with so different a story to tell. I am so sad that a life such as this has been lived in my life time. And how many more? a poignant book, all credit to a man (and boy) of such courage and strong spirit. I wish you well.
Customer Review: 04 September 2007
Reviewer: L Gregg
I too read the book in one sitting. I have read many books lately of similar ilke which have touched me, this was no exception. Unbelieveable and I admire Peter Roche for surviving and going on to become one of lifes decent human beings despite his inhumane start to life.
Customer Review: 29 August 2007
Reviewer: C A Hall
I read this book within 24 hours and had to sleep some of them. The saddest thought at the end is that there are children still living with abuse and neglect. Beautifully written Mr Roche, i thank God that I can't imagine what you went through.
Customer Review: 28 August 2007
Reviewer: KG
I couldnt put this book down. I cried so much reading this book. i cant believe Peter was roaming the streets of London as a toddler and nobody battered an eyelid. Peter is a remarkable man. I wish him and his family all the best. A must read for everyone...really puts things into perspective!
Customer Review: 23 August 2007
Reviewer: s gill
i read this book in one evening i could not put it down. it made me cry to hear about the awful way peter was treated, my son is not much older than peter when he was found by the police as a toddler. i could not imagine this happening, its just too horrible. it is so sad that these awful things went on and nobody helped these families. peter roche is a hero for surviving this terrible life, ending this cycle of violence which is all too common in abusive families. i wish him and his family all the best. a brilliant book, everyone should read it.
Product details
Format :
Paperback
ISBN: 9780141033556
Size : 129 x 198mm
Pages : 352
Published : 23 Aug 2007
Publisher : Penguin
£6.99
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