The Good Girls: An Ordinary Killing

In the small village of Katra Sadatganj in western Uttar Pradesh, two teenage girls, Padma and Lalli, were found hanging in an orchard. The investigation into their deaths exposed the darkest corners of the community and sparked a national conversation about sex, honor, and violence. The Good Girls is a powerful and agenda-setting inquest into the human cost of shame.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 06 January 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In a captivating and thought-provoking exploration, Katra Sadatganj delves into the tragic deaths of two teenage girls, Padma and Lalli, in a small village in western Uttar Pradesh. This poignant narrative uncovers the intricate web of tradition, custom, and societal expectations that bound the community, where young women were closely monitored and held to strict gender roles. It was a seemingly ordinary night when Padma and Lalli went missing, and their lifeless bodies were discovered hanging in the orchard, their clothing muddied. However, the subsequent investigation into their deaths would shatter the illusions and beliefs of their community, igniting a nationwide conversation about sex, honor, and violence.

The Good Girls takes readers back to the scene of Padma and Lalli's short but tragic lives, challenging them to confront the human cost of shame. Through vivid storytelling and deep insights, Sadatganj explores the complex dynamics of gender, power, and social norms that perpetuate violence against women. She sheds light on the societal pressures and expectations that lead young girls to make dangerous choices, often at the expense of their own well-being. The book also highlights the resilience and strength of the women in the community who refuse to be silenced by the tragedies they have faced.

Sadatganj's writing is powerful and evocative, drawing readers into the emotional journey of the characters. She skillfully weaves together the personal stories of the girls, their families, and the community, creating a rich tapestry of human experiences. The Good Girls is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of addressing the societal issues that perpetuate gender-based violence. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of human relationships and the urgent need for change.

In recognition of her outstanding work, The Good Girls has been longlisted for the prestigious ALCS Gold Non-Fiction Dagger Award and the Royal Society of Literature Ondaatje Prize 2022. This prestigious recognition further highlights the significance of Sadatganj's book and its ability to engage and inspire readers worldwide.

In conclusion, The Good Girls is a groundbreaking and essential book that delves into the tragic deaths of two teenage girls and the societal forces that perpetuate gender-based violence. Through powerful storytelling and deep insights, Katra Sadatganj challenges readers to confront the human cost of shame and advocate for change. This book is a testament to the power of literature and the importance of addressing the urgent issues of our time.

Weight: 280g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781408876763