Reproductive Rights

January 1, 2016

Gr 9 Up-Examining the history of reproductive rights from ancient to modern times, this latest entry in the discussion on contraceptive choice serves as a brief yet informative primer for readers seeking information on the subject, and it does so with very little authorial bias. Rather than belaboring the ethical and moral implications generally associated with this hot-button topic, Wittenstein adeptly chronicles its evolution in terms of the various social, economic, legal, and political developments that have shaped our notions of identity and proper social roles for women, allowing teens to come to their own conclusions. Although primarily focused on Western cultures, the book does include examples from around the world, which serve as a reminder that reproductive rights are more than just an affluent nation's dilemma. This is a global issue that encompasses everything from access to (affordable) contraception and medical care to population control. Accompanying sidebars, historical photos and reproductions, and graphic organizers such as maps and charts complement the well-researched narrative, and the extensive back matter provides an abundance of material for deeper exploration. Although there are a few misspellings, this is a solid overview of a multifaceted and complex subject. VERDICT Well written and impeccably researched, this volume will appeal to budding activists and feminists and to those concerned about human rights.-Audrey Sumser, Kent State University at Tuscarawas, New Philadelphia, OH

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 15, 2015
The interplay of complex political, medical, and societal issues involved in reproductive rights is clearly explained and placed in its historical context. Human reproduction and attempts to control it have been issues for society throughout history, culminating in the United States in contentious debates about abortion. Wittenstein places the issue in historical context beginning in the ancient world and highlighting particular periods of struggle for societal change, making clear how long abortion and birth control have been issues of contention. Major figures such as Alfred Comstock and Margaret Sanger are introduced, as well as some of the differences in approach that caused divisions in the cause in the early years of the 20th century. Ultimately, Wittenstein argues, the greatest influences continue to come from scientific advances that improve contraception even as the country remains divided about pregnancy termination. This slim volume is full of information on all aspects of the subject. Written in a clear, straightforward style, it manages to include pertinent information about the role of reproduction in U.S. slavery as well as current efforts to address the issue globally. Black-and-white and color photographs, drawings, charts, and sidebars add graphic interest. There is considerable backmatter: glossary, timeline, source notes, selected bibliography, recommendations for further information, index, and photo credits. A valuable resource. (Nonfiction. 12-16)

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Starred review from February 15, 2016
Grades 9-12 *Starred Review* Though slim, this volume packs a wallop, taking an exhaustive look at the history of human reproduction and the prevention thereof. Before delving into the legal and moral battles surrounding these issues, Wittenstein comprehensively examines archaic forms of birth controlfrom magic and rituals to condoms and spermicides of the ancient worldbefore turning to attitudes toward sex and childbearing in the Victorian age. Wittenstein leaves no stone unturned when setting the stage, frankly discussing obscenity laws in the late 1800s, the feminist movement and the dawn of the Pill, and the added stigma that black women faced when it came to reproduction. She elaborates, too, on key figures in birth control and abortion arguments, from antiobscenity enforcer Anthony Comstock to birth control revolutionary Margaret Sanger. When the subject does finally turn to Roe v. Wade and the legalization of abortion, Wittenstein is no less thorough, elaborating on reasons for abortion, the arguments of both pro-life and pro-choice activists, and the politicization of women's bodies. She is careful, as well, to consider reproductive rights as a global issue: sidebars on child brides and maternal mortality rates around the world add perspective, and she ends, powerfully, on a call for improved sex education. Diagrams, photographs of key players and events, and extensive back matter round out this impressive resource.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)