Almost a Woman

"Almost a Woman" by Mary Wood-Allen is a guiding book for young women during the shift from childhood to adulthood, highlighting emotional, social, and physical changes during this important time, written in the early 1900s. Told through talks between a father and his daughter Helen, the book looks at self-respect, morals, and informed choices about relationships. Mr. and Mrs. Wayne discuss talking to Helen about her coming adolescence and the change into womanhood. Mr. Wayne stresses teaching self-respect and the morals of interactions between young men and women. Helen wants advice about friendships and growing up, so she struggles with society's expectations of young women and wanting independence. Their talks explore the values of purity, the need for education for women, and the important role of mothers in shaping character for future generations, setting the stage for a thorough look at womanhood.