A review by gem114
Madame Restell: The Life, Death, and Resurrection of Old New York's Most Fabulous, Fearless, and Infamous Abortionist by Jennifer Wright

informative inspiring slow-paced

4.0

Madame Restell by Jennifer Wright is a super interesting biography about Madame Restell (born Ann Trow), an abortion provider in New York City in the 1800s.  The book focuses on Restell's rags-to-riches story as she becomes famous (infamous) for advocating for and providing birth control and reproductive health services in New York and other major cities on the East Coast.  The book also captures the rollercoaster of sentiments about abortion, sexuality, and women's rights throughout that century.  Not only does Wright bring to light the life and contributions of a historical woman most have never heard of, but she does so with a distinctly modern voice, situating Restell's story in a clear line of sight to today's challenges to women's reproductive rights.  I'd definitely recommend it to anyone interested in American history, women's rights, and health care.
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