50 pages • 1 hour read
The Doctors Blackwell: How Two Pioneering Sisters Brought Medicine to Women and Women to Medicine
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Book Brief
352
Biography • Nonfiction
United States, Europe • 19th century
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Doctors Blackwell: How Two Pioneering Sisters Brought Medicine to Women and Women to Medicine by Janice P. Nimura explores the lives and achievements of Elizabeth and Emily Blackwell. These trailblazing sisters overcame societal barriers to become the first women to receive medical degrees in America, transforming the medical profession and advocating for women's roles in medicine.
Inspirational
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
6,537 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
The Doctors Blackwell by Janice P. Nimura is praised for its meticulous research and engaging narrative, highlighting Elizabeth and Emily Blackwell's influence in medicine. It effectively contextualizes their achievements within the societal norms of their time. However, some reviewers note a desire for deeper personal details and analysis of the sisters' complex relationship.
Who Should Read The Doctors Blackwell?
A reader interested in The Doctors Blackwell would appreciate historical biographies and feminist literature, akin to Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly. They enjoy stories of trailblazing women overcoming societal barriers, particularly in medicine and science.
6,537 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Elizabeth Blackwell
Elizabeth Blackwell
The first woman to earn a medical degree in America, she co-founded the New York Infirmary for Indigent Women and Children and faced significant societal challenges as a female doctor in the 19th century.
Emily Blackwell
Emily Blackwell
Sister of Elizabeth Blackwell and an accomplished physician herself, who played a critical role in managing the New York Infirmary and advancing medical education for women.
Marie Zakrzewska
Marie Zakrzewska
A pioneering female physician from Germany who collaborated with the Blackwell sisters, contributing significantly to the New York Infirmary and later establishing the New England Hospital for Women and Children.
Florence Nightingale
Florence Nightingale
A renowned nursing pioneer known for her contributions during the Crimean War, serving as a historical foil to Elizabeth Blackwell in terms of their differing views on women's roles in medicine.
352
Biography • Nonfiction
United States, Europe • 19th century
2021
Adult
18+ years
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