Reviews

I had never read this book before; although it was often referenced in history classes over the years.

This was a very interesting read and very impressive as investigative journalism especially for the time. Bly obviously underestimated what being in the insane asylum was like but managed to create change from her experience. I was disturbed by the reasons that women would end up in the asylum; one woman apparently placed there when she became angry with other servants in the house where she was working.

This edition includes Bly's investigation into being a servant, which is the 19th century equivalent of a temp agency. This work, while very different from the insane asylum, provides another insight into the lives of women in the 19th century.

cambion's review against another edition

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informative sad fast-paced

3.0

theneener's review against another edition

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4.0

Can’t believe I started this in 2016 and finally finished in 2024. It’s a very short book as Bly gets to the point as she recalls her quick stint at the asylum. Sad to think things are probably not that better off for those that are incarcerated against their will and/or under false allegations.

mckjo's review against another edition

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adventurous dark informative sad fast-paced

5.0

Incredibly eye-opening report by columnist Nellie Bly.

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