'"Lucid and engrossing. with authoritative research and sometimes heart-breaking examples." --Francine Klagsbrun, Lilith "Nadell's work makes a significant story more familiar and contributes to the broader history of women's efforts to fully participate in religious leadership-struggles that continue in many religious traditions." -- Booklist "The definitive study of 'the road to women's ordination' in Judaism." --Jonathan D. Sarna, The American Jewish Experience " . [A] telling that is both indispensable and gratifying. Nadell's historical expertise is well matched by her narrative skills.

Scholars and the general public owe her a collective gesture of gratitude." --Norma Baumel Joseph, Concordia University "Pamela Nadell has uncovered an important and little-known story essential to an understanding of the changing roles of Jewish women. A fine work of historical scholarship and a compelling read." --Paula Hyman, Gender and Assimilation in Modern Jewish History.