Books like From cradle to grave by Joyce Egginton

From 1972 to 1985, every child born to the Tinning family in Schenectady, N.Y. died in infancy. Initial explanations ranged from "crib death" to a possible genetic condition. As the deaths continued, suspicion fell on Marybeth Tinning, who was alone when the children fell ill. After a prolonged, slow official response, a police interview led to a confession—later retracted—claiming that she smothered three of her infants. Investigative journalist Joyce Egginton provides a sympathetic, detailed narrative that blends personal tragedy with an examination of the social and psychological factors that can lead to infanticide, challenging the perception that this crime is rare. Egginton’s work offers insight into the mechanisms behind such tragedies and the impact on family and community, positioning the case within broader debates on unsolved infant deaths and maternal responsibility.

First publish date: 1989