Wayward Girls

Wayward Girls is a powerful, life-affirming novel inspired by true events, exploring survival, friendship, and justice. Set in Buffalo, New York during the turbulent Vietnam era, the story follows six teenage girls who are confined to the Good Shepherd, a Catholic reform school run by the Sisters of Charity. Their “offenses” are simply being gay, pregnant, or deemed unruly — yet they are condemned to forced labor in the institution’s laundry.

Among them is Mairin, the free-spirited daughter of Irish immigrants, whose confinement is meant to protect her from her abusive stepfather. Within the walls of Good Shepherd, the girls form bonds of resilience and solidarity, navigating cruelty and secrecy while clinging to hope.

Susan Wiggs weaves a gut-wrenching yet redemptive narrative that shines a light on hidden histories of women, institutional injustice, and the strength found in friendship. With mystery, suspense, and emotional depth, Wayward Girls stands as both a gripping page-turner and a testament to courage and redemption.