After being sent a plethora of Waterstones subscription emails (haven’t got the heart to unsubscribe), I came across ‘The Five: Untold Lives of The Women Killed by Jack the Ripper’. It was a classic case of judging a book by it’s cover, i mean look at it, an actual newspaperesque front page!
More importantly, however, is the whole purpose of the book in which to give the infamous murder’s female victims a voice, previously ignored due to also being victims of a patriarchal society. Commonly referred to as simply, ‘The prostitutes killed by Jack the Ripper’, Rubenhold poignantly writes a biography of the believed victims- Pollie, Annie, Elizabeth, Catherine and Mary-Jane. Her insightful non-fiction narrative was thoroughly well-researched, delicately telling the important life story of each woman. As a mean to avoid previously glorified Jack the Ripper, and rather, provide some justice for his victims, female author and historian uses her feminist values to paint the picture of the Victorian Era, whilst drawing significant contrasts to the modern day.
True Crime is never usually my go-to, however, the purpose behind it and my interest in life during the Victorian Era, caught my eye. Mirroring Dickens’ by plainly illustrating social injustice and it’s impact was another important aspect. The language was accessible, with careful footnotes and great vocabulary to add to my word bank (iPhone notes). Ooh, also with fascinating photographs of the people involved (I looked at before reading, of course).
With so much information and an Inspector Calls type narrative, I will continue to recommend to anyone looking for a truly good book.
Movie quote: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” -Ferris Bueller, Ferris Bureller’s Day Off. Iconic 80s film, needed during lockdown as a reminder to make the most of everyday, albeit small (I don’t recommend driving to Chicago town).
Amber Reads something 
Beautiful review ❤
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