Tag Archives: The Kidnap of Elizabeth Canning

The Kidnap of Elizabeth Canning

There’s a dark story connecting this 18th century abduction with a 20th century crime novel.

Thanks to my guest, Tana French. The new Penguin edition of The Franchise Affair, which includes her introduction, is available now. And Tana’s own latest novel is The Searcher, now available in paperback.

This episode contains minor spoilers for The Franchise Affair.

Mentioned in this episode:
The Franchise Affair by Josephine Tey
Tom Jones by Henry Fielding
Amelia by Henry Fielding
The Canning Wonder by Arthur Machen
Elizabeth is Missing by Lillian de la Torre
The Canning Enigma by John Treherne
The Appearance of Truth: The Story of Elizabeth Canning and 18th Century Narrative by Judith Moore
Josephine Tey: A Life by Jennifer Morag Henderson

NB: Links to Blackwell’s are affiliate links, meaning that the podcast receives a small commission when you purchase a book there (the price remains the same for you). Blackwell’s is a UK bookselling chain that ships internationally at no extra charge.

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Find a full transcript of this episode at shedunnitshow.com/thekidnapofelizabethcanningtranscript

Music by Audioblocks and Blue Dot Sessions. See shedunnitshow.com/musiccredits for more details.

The Kidnap of Elizabeth Canning Transcript

Caroline: Late on the evening of the 29th January 1753, a young maidservant walked back into her family home in east London. She had no shoes or luggage with her, and her hands and feet were filthy, as was the underdress and petticoat she was wearing. A dirty, blood-soaked rag was tied around her head.… Continue Reading