Published in 2015 (first published 1887)
92 pages
Nellie Bly (1864-1922) was the pen name of pioneer female journalist Elizabeth Jane Cochran. She remains notable for two feats: a record-breaking trip around the world, in emulation of Jules Verne’s character Phileas Fogg (Bly completed the trip in seventy-two days) and an exposé, in which she faked insanity to study a mental institution from within. In addition to her writing, she was also an industrialist and charity worker. Bly died of pneumonia at St. Mark’s Hospital in New York City in 1922 aged 57.
What is this book about?
“Ten Days in a Mad-House” is Nellie Bly’s groundbreaking 1887 exposé detailing her daring undercover investigation into the conditions of mental institutions, specifically on Blackwell’s Island. Disguised as a mentally ill woman, Bly immerses herself in the harrowing experiences of the inmates, revealing the appalling treatment and neglect they endure. Through vivid descriptions and poignant observations, she sheds light on the injustices of the mental health system, challenging societal perceptions of madness. This work not only sparked public outrage but also contributed to significant reforms in mental health care, solidifying Bly’s legacy as a pioneering investigative journalist.
