Lizzie Borden

by Michael Burgan

Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of what it takes to be considered one of the worst figures in history, with this fourth book in a nonfiction series that focuses on the most nefarious historical figures.

Lizzie Borden took an axe, gave her mother forty whacks.
When she saw what she had done, she gave her father forty-one.

On August 4, 1892, the murders of wealthy and prominent Andrew and Abby Borden rocked the small town of Fall River, Massachusetts. The accused? Mild-mannered and highly respected Lizzie Borden, daughter of Andrew and stepdaughter of Abby. But did she actually do it? And if she did, why?

Lizzie had as much to gain from the death of her father as anyone. Despite his wealth, Andrew did not believe in spending money and Lizzie had grown frustrated with the situation. And her actions in the days before the murder—trying to buy a type of strong poison—as well as those after the murder—burning a dress she claimed was stained—didn’t help. On August 11, Lizzie was arrested. But after a sensational trial, she was found not guilty.

Rumors lingered. Stories persisted. And Lizzie continues to fascinate even today.

Genres: Nonfiction

225 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 2, 2018

Reviews

[Emilou · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought the title was a stretch since they never proved if Lizzie was the killer so she couldn't be history's worst. Nor was the crime the worst; I'm sure there are worst crimes out there. The book should be called "Famous Crimes" instead of History's Worst.

However, the author did a great job presenting all the information and not being persuasive to whether or not Lizzie did it or not except for the title.

[Lola · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this middle grade book about Lizzie Borden.

[Gerardo Herrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book ia very informative and easy to read. Finished it in two days. It is written better than most scholarly work.

[Mellanie C · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fairly solid recounting of the crime, the trial, and the aftermath, suitable for young readers.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 simple presentation of the facts. Started out very engaging with the murder and trial and then lost a bit of steam toward the end.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good beginner's book about Lizzie Borden. It used many credible sources and only got a few details wrong.

[Georgi_Lvs_Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to this book, it has made me change my views on Lizzie…. I think it is possible that she DID NOT do it. As more time goes on and I read more my views will probably keep changing!

Really enjoyed this book however and is a favourite!