Woman's Motor Manual by Gladys De Havilland first edition 1918

DE HAVILLAND, Gladys. The Woman’s Motor Manual: How to Obtain Employment in Government or Private Service as a Woman Driver. 

London, Temple Press Ltd., 1918.
 
Octavo, vi + 181 pp., 23 pages of advertisements at front and 3 pages at rear; illustrated throughout with photographic plates and instructional diagrams. Original publisher’s illustrated card boards, cover design by H. Thomas, spine titled in black. Spine toned with rubbing and wear to extremities; corners and edges rubbed; text-block cracked at inner hinge but holding. A sound, about very good copy. Original printed subscription insert for Temple Press motoring journals present at the front.
 
Issued as part of the “War Service Manuals” series, this is a contemporary guide to the training, employment, and professional practice of women drivers during the First World War. De Havilland addresses recruitment into government and private service, licensing, pay, uniforms, mechanical competence, tyre repair, and the practical management of cars, ambulances, taxis, and vans. The photographic plates depict women drivers in wartime services, illustrating both uniform and vehicles in active use. An editorial note, written after the signing of the Armistice, argues that women’s large-scale participation in motoring would continue into peacetime, and that technical proficiency would remain essential. First edition copies of this manual are uncommon.