Bad Bridget: Crime, Mayhem and the Lives of Irish Emigrant Women

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Ireland was not a good place to be a woman, and many young women emigrated to North America seeking a better life. Elaine Farrell and Leanne McCormick, creators of the Bad Bridget podcast, have uncovered a world where Irish women outnumbered Irish men in prison, where stubbornness could get you locked up, and where a serial killer called Lizzie Halliday was described as the worst woman on earth. Bad Bridget is a masterpiece of social history and true crime, revealing a fascinating and previously unexplored world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 11 January 2024
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

A captivating tale that sheds light on lives previously overlooked, "Bad Bridget" has emerged as the number one bestseller. The Sunday Independent has praised it as an "important, impeccably researched, yet eminently readable book that charts new territory." The Irish Examiner has awarded it with an impressive four stars, acknowledging its significance in exploring the lives of women in Ireland during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

The historical context of Ireland in the 19th and early 20th centuries was particularly challenging for women. Many young women, driven by the desire for a better life, embarked on the arduous journey to North America, often traveling alone. While some found solace in quiet industry and piety, others quickly found themselves entangled in a web of trouble, facing dire circumstances on an astonishing scale.

Elaine Farrell and Leanne McCormick, the creators of the celebrated "Bad Bridget" podcast, have uncovered a world that defies conventional narratives. In this realm, Irish women outnumbered Irish men in prison, where stubbornness could lead to incarceration. Moreover, a notorious serial killer named Lizzie Halliday, described by the New York Times as "the worst woman on earth," roamed free, terrorizing the communities she inhabited.

Through their meticulous research and storytelling, Farrell and McCormick unveil the social forces that bred this mayhem and dysfunction. Their narratives are a tapestry of strange, sometimes funny, and often moving stories, showcasing the diverse experiences of these young women as they transitioned from the impoverished homeland to the bustling cities of North America. From sex workers and thieves to kidnappers and killers, these Bridgets represent a spectrum of individuals who have endured extreme hardships and emerged stronger.

"Bad Bridget" is a masterpiece of social history and true crime, offering a fascinating and previously unexplored perspective. It delves deep into the lives of these women, shedding light on their struggles, triumphs, and the societal pressures that shaped their existence. The book is rich in detail and thorough in its research, providing a comprehensive understanding of the historical context and the societal challenges that plagued these women.

"Bad Bridget" has captivated readers worldwide, with its captivating storytelling and insightful analysis. It has received widespread praise from critics and reviewers, who have commended its ability to shed light on a previously marginalized aspect of history. The book has resonated with readers, offering a fresh perspective on the lives of women and the complexities of their experiences.

In conclusion, "Bad Bridget" is a remarkable achievement that deserves to be celebrated. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of exploring the untold stories of history. Through its captivating narratives and thorough research, the book has provided a valuable contribution to our understanding of the past and the challenges faced by women in societies across time. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a true crime aficionado, or simply someone seeking a compelling and thought-provoking read, "Bad Bridget" is a must-read that will leave you captivated and inspired.

Weight: 240g
Dimension: 194 x 128 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241994320