The Ambitious Woman in Business by Gilbert, Eleanor [Ann Rosenblatt] - 1916

New York & London: Funk & Wagnalls, 1916. First edition. Fine. Original green publisher's cloth binding with gilt to spine and front board. Just about Fine, with the smallest bumps to lower front corner and extremities of spine. Internally bright and unmarked; complete, including folding chart and rear appendix. The only first edition on the market without damage or ex-library marks; rarely found in this condition. An important book assisting the rising "modern" woman on succeeding in home life and business life to be a well-rounded individual.

A compact and effective compendium of practical advice and encouragement for working women. While acknowledging that men continue to maintain power in business, Gilbert aims "to bring intimately to woman's attention the modern methods used by men to achieve great success in business, which she can apply in planning her own future." Women were increasingly recognized as members of the workforce -- studies in the same year through the YWCA had begun providing data, while advertisements and pop culture hailed the advent of the flapper and the 'modern woman' -- and Gilbert encourages their pursuit of financial independence. She also supports the growing notion that a woman needn't choose just one version of life. "I am convinced that you, the typical American business woman can be happy and successful both in business and as a many-sided, interesting woman." Education rates were, after all, rising for girls in America. Women's incomes were growing. And women began marrying later because financial precariousness was a decreasing concern. Gilbert's book, therefore, steps in to give these women guidance. The book provides information on a variety of careers, as well as an appendix with a bibliography of business books for continued reading, courses, and reference guides. Fine.