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The Edward Street Baby Farm

The Murder Trial That Gripped a City
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( 77 ratings, 21 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Edward Street Baby Farm by Stella Budrikis explores the dark and unsettling case of a woman running an illicit baby farming operation in early 20th century Australia. The book delves into the societal circumstances that allowed this grim enterprise to flourish, while detective work and sleuthing efforts are detailed to bring justice. Combining real events with gripping narrative techniques, it's a compelling study of crime and morality.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3700
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This gripping true crime story may appeal to you if you are fascinated by dark historical events and enjoy exploring the chilling reality of notorious figures. Set in Australia, it delves into the life and crimes of a woman who becomes infamous for her heartless operations, offering a shocking insight into early 20th-century society. If you are intrigued by tales that uncover hidden pasts and explore human nature's darker side, this book could be a compelling read.

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In 1907, Perth woman Alice Mitchell was arrested for the murder of five-month-old Ethel Booth. The Alice Mitchell murder trial gripped the city of Perth and the nation. This book retraces this infamous β€˜baby farm’ tragedy, which led to legislative changes to protect children’s welfare.

The Alice Mitchell murder trial gripped the city of Perth and the nation. This book retraces this infamous 'baby farm' tragedy, which led to legislative changes to protect children's welfare.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Alice Mitchell murder trial gripped the city of Perth and the nation. The Edward Street Baby Farm retraces this infamous 'baby farm' tragedy, which led to legislative changes to protect children's welfare.

In 1907, Perth woman Alice Mitchell was arrested for the murder of five-month-old Ethel Booth. During the inquest and subsequent trial, the state was horrified to learn that at least 37 infants had died in Mitchell's care in the previous six years. It became clear that she had been running a 'baby farm', making a profit out of caring for the children of single mothers and other 'unfortunate women'.

The case raised questions about how so many infants could die, in apparently squalid conditions, implicating Perth's first female health inspector, Harriet Lenihan, who visited regularly, and Dr Edward Officer, a children's specialist, who had signed most of the death certificates.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Edward Street Baby Farm by Stella Budrikis delves into chilling historical true crime, receiving positive feedback for its thorough research and compelling narrative. Reviewers praise its gripping exposition of dark, forgotten events in Australia’s history, with commendations for bringing light to this harrowing story. It is noted for being both engaging and informative, providing a deep dive into a disturbing yet fascinating subject.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781925816099

Publisher: Fremantle Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 29 September 2020

Country: Australia

Imprint: Fremantle Press

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 18.0mm

Width: 154.0mm

Height: 232.0mm

Weight: 328g

Pages: 256

About the Author

Stella Budrikis was born in England but has lived in Western Australia for most of her life. She has worked as a general practitioner, pastoral carer, addictions clinic doctor and freelance writer. Stella is married with two grown-up daughters and enjoys researching family and social history.

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