Ms. Sohn...makes a very successful transition to feminist historian. There is irony but little humor in her compelling, well-researched exploration of these pioneers, who faced jail time because they promoted contraception, gender equality, sexual education and a woman’s right to sexual pleasure.

By any standard, this is a fascinating group of women. Sohn is a vivid writer with an eye for detail, and she is clearly inspired by her subjects’ fervent beliefs and dramatic lives.

... fascinating.

The Man Who Hated Women, Amy Sohn’s lively new book, spotlights eight women who challenged Comstock with their writings and actions.

Aside from offering a few perfunctory biographical details, Sohn mostly depicts Comstock as a nuisance or a cartoon villain.

... engrossing.

Sohn’s treats sex radicals and reproductive rights with the aplomb of a former sex columnist.

...engrossing.

... a fascinating look at a key historical moment for free speech and women's rights in the U.S..

Throughout this immensely readable history, Sohn fashions sympathetic narratives of these women’s lives and underscores their invaluable sacrifices for a vital cause. Many readers will be appalled to learn that literature about birth control was once considered obscene. Stellar research in women’s history, especially crucial due to recent threats to abortion rights across the country..

... an engrossing account of U.S. post office special agent Anthony Comstock’s anti-vice crusade and the women who opposed it.