Give Her Credit is a relatively short, but comprehensive, accounting of the development of a women's bank in 1970s Denver. In the '70s women still could not access credit, loans, or a mortgage without the signature of a man, and in addition, were very limited in reaching higher levels of the banking industry if that was their career.

This book outlines how a group of women in Denver, and some male allies, set out to correct this by developing a community bank run by women that would address women's banking and business needs and provide other services that traditional banks were not willing to provide to women yet. I liked how this book had biographies of each woman involved in the development of the bank, and I appreciate that the author also covered how racism intersected with sexism in how women were discriminated against in the banking world. The conflicts the women engaged in with each other were interesting to think about as well because they obviously all cared very deeply about this project and wanted to make it the best it could be and to succeed. I always am interested to learn about how groups or organizations end up resolving these conflicts and what happens to those who disagree.

This is a really interesting topic to cover because while I think many people do know at this point that women were not able to access credit cards, loans, etc. until relatively recently, I also think that it's something easily forgotten because we take this completely for granted now. It's scary to think about in a time when women's rights are backsliding. It's important to be reminded that we absolutely cannot assume that our autonomy will always be there (which is becoming very apparent now).

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in feminist history. Although this bank wasn't explicitly feminist, it was run by women who rejected traditional gender roles and were interested in giving women control over their own lives.

Many thanks to Little A and to NetGalley for this ARC to review. This review is my honest opinion.

"Give Her Credit" was a really interesting read about the founding of a Woman's Bank in the 1970s. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and learning more about the women driving the bank's founding.

*Give Her Credit* by Grace L. Williams is a riveting and inspirational account of a group of formidable women who transformed the male-dominated world of business, banking, and finance in the 1970s. This true story captures the essence of a groundbreaking moment in history when women refused to play by the existing rules and instead forged a new path, making history in the process.

Set against the backdrop of a burgeoning feminist movement, *Give Her Credit* shines a spotlight on the incredible journey of the Women’s Bank in Denver, Colorado. Led by visionary bank officer B. LaRae Orullian and entrepreneur Carol Green, along with a team of trailblazing women such as Judi Foster, Edna Mosley, Mary Roebling, Betty Freedman, and Gail Schoettler, these pioneers overcame immense challenges to establish the most successful female-run bank in the nation.

Williams' storytelling is both compelling and empowering, as she chronicles the uphill battles and remarkable achievements of these enterprising women. Their unwavering determination and commitment to social justice not only revolutionized the banking industry but also provided opportunities for marginalized citizens across the country. This book is a testament to their indomitable spirit and a long-overdue tribute to their contributions.

*Give Her Credit* is an essential read for anyone interested in history, feminism, and the relentless pursuit of equality. It is a powerful reminder of the impact that a determined group of individuals can have on society. Williams' detailed narrative and engaging prose make this a standout work that will inspire and educate readers. A truly remarkable story that deserves to be celebrated.

incredibly well-researched history on one of the first women's banks and also detailing the many leaps in equality that the women in this book accomplished so that women like me can now exist on our own terms - single, independent, child-free - and still manage finances ourselves and become homeowners or business owners, without patriarchal involvement.

Give Her Credit is a compelling and long-overdue tribute to the remarkable women who defied the norms of the male-dominated world of banking and finance in 1970s America. This galvanizing true story sheds light on the pioneering efforts of a group of women in Denver who not only challenged the status quo but also revolutionized the industry with the establishment of the Women’s Bank.

In an era when women faced systemic barriers in obtaining credit and advancing in finance careers, the Women’s Bank, founded in 1978 in Denver, Colorado, stood as a beacon of change and empowerment. Led by visionary entrepreneur Carol Green and bank officer B. LaRae Orullian, alongside a cadre of determined colleagues including investment whiz Judi Foster, civil rights advocate Edna Mosley, financial executive Mary Roebling, socialite Betty Freedman, and social justice advocate Gail Schoettler, these women forged a path that reshaped banking history.

Author [Author's Name] skillfully navigates the challenges faced by these trailblazers, highlighting their courage, resilience, and unwavering determination to succeed in a male-dominated industry. The narrative unfolds with a blend of historical context and personal anecdotes, painting a vivid picture of the uphill battles these women fought to establish and sustain the Women’s Bank. From navigating regulatory hurdles to overcoming entrenched sexism and skepticism, their journey is both inspiring and illuminating.

What makes Give Her Credit particularly impactful is its exploration of the broader implications of their achievements. By creating the most successful female-run bank in the nation, these women not only paved the way for future generations of women in finance but also championed opportunities for marginalized communities across the country. Their story serves as a testament to the transformative power of women’s leadership and collective action in dismantling barriers and fostering inclusivity.

The book is meticulously researched, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the social, economic, and political landscape of the 1970s that shaped these women’s careers and aspirations. Through insightful storytelling and archival details, [Author's Name] captures the essence of a pivotal moment in feminist history, where bold initiatives and strategic alliances catalyzed significant change in banking practices and societal attitudes.

Give Her Credit is not just a biography of extraordinary women; it is a celebration of resilience, solidarity, and the enduring legacy of those who dared to challenge the norm. It serves as a timely reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the importance of recognizing and amplifying the contributions of women in traditionally male-dominated fields.