The Secret Life of Dorothy Soames

The Secret Life of Dorothy Soames is a compelling memoir that explores the intertwined histories of the Foundling Hospital and the author's own family. Growing up in a privileged California setting, Justine Cowan uncovers her mother's tumultuous past rooted in the hospital’s heritage, revealing a story of resilience amid hardship. Blending social history with personal discovery, the book offers a moving account of a girl’s challenging early years and the broader legacy of an institution that shaped many lives.