The Murder of Helen Jewett: The Life and Death of a Prostitute in Nineteenth-Century New York
The Murder of Helen Jewett: The Life and Death of a Prostitute in Nineteenth-Century New York
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1999
Book Brief
BetaThe Murder of Helen Jewett: The Life and Death of a Prostitute in Nineteenth-Century New York
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1999512
Book • Nonfiction
New York City • 1830s
1999
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Murder of Helen Jewett: The Life and Death of a Prostitute in Nineteenth-Century New York by Patricia Cline Cohen examines the life and tragic death of Helen Jewett, a sex worker in 1830s New York City. The investigation and trial sparked public curiosity and media frenzy, highlighting societal attitudes towards class, gender, and media influence during that era.
Informative
Dark
Unnerving
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
1,341 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
The Murder of Helen Jewett by Patricia Cline Cohen offers a compelling exploration of 19th-century gender and social dynamics through a sensational murder case. Reviews praise Cohen's meticulous research and vivid storytelling. Some critique the dense details, which may overwhelm casual readers. Overall, it is a rich historical narrative.
Who Should Read The Murder of Helen Jewett: The Life and Death of a Prostitute in Nineteenth-Century New York?
Readers interested in true crime, 19th-century history, and gender studies will enjoy The Murder of Helen Jewett. Similar in appeal to Erik Larson's The Devil in the White City, it offers insight into societal norms and media influence, blending crime narrative with historical analysis.
1,341 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
512
Book • Nonfiction
New York City • 1830s
1999
Adult
18+ years
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