Working With the Working Woman

"Working With the Working Woman" by Cornelia Stratton Parker is a non-fiction narrative from the viewpoint of a woman who decides to go undercover as a factory worker to gain insights into the lives of working women during an era of industrial expansion. Motivated by a desire to understand the reality of these laborers, the author recounts her firsthand experiences in environments like a candy factory, describing the physical and mental challenges, the sense of community, the financial constraints, and the individual stories that define their lives. Through vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, the book paints a picture of the daily lives, struggles, and resilience of women navigating their roles within the industrial landscape, providing a snapshot of early 20th-century working-class culture.