Mary Wood-Allen's 'What a Young Woman Ought to Know' is a groundbreaking book that provides invaluable guidance to young women navigating the complexities of adolescence. Written in a clear and accessible style, the book addresses important topics such as personal hygiene, physical health, and emotional well-being, offering practical advice for young women to lead fulfilling lives. Wood-Allen's emphasis on moral purity and self-respect reflects the prevailing social norms of the late 19th century, making this book a fascinating glimpse into the cultural context of the era. Mary Wood-Allen, a respected educator and physician, drew upon her experience working with young women to write this informative guide. Her background in both education and medicine lends credibility to the practical tips and medical advice provided in the book. Wood-Allen's genuine concern for the well-being of young women is evident throughout the pages of 'What a Young Woman Ought to Know.' I highly recommend 'What a Young Woman Ought to Know' to any young woman seeking guidance on navigating the challenges of adolescence. Wood-Allen's timeless wisdom and practical advice make this book an essential read for young women striving to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

Mary Wood-Allen, M.D. (1841-1908), emerges as a significant figure in the nineteenth-century social purity movement, especially recognized for her contributions to the advancement of women's health education. A physician by trade, she channeled her expertise into the realm of literature, aiming to provide didactic guidance for young females of the era. Her most influential work, 'What a Young Woman Ought to Know', belongs to the 'Self and Sex Series,' which sought to enlighten women on matters of sexuality, reproductive health, and moral conduct, a subject often obscured by the societal norms of her time. Dr. Wood-Allen's approach in the book is emblematic of her broader literary style, which combines medical knowledge with moral instruction, a fusion meant not just to inform but to inculcate values in line with the Victorian ideals of purity and self-control. Her contributions extend beyond just her writings; she served as the National Superintendent of the Purity department of the Women's Christian Temperance Union, reinforcing her commitment to societal reform and the upliftment of women's status. Although her work is very much a product of its time, Dr. Wood-Allen's legacy persists in the foundations she laid for future discourse on women's health and sexuality.