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Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
5.0

Believe it or not, this is my first time reading Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. Well…technically not. Remember those illustrated classic books that you read in like 5th grade? Yeah, that was the last time I read Little Women. So I knew the gist of the story and the ending, but it was very difficult to recall details. So this lovely book was our bookclub’s selection for November and December. The March sisters are utterly delightful and honestly, quite relatable. I grew up with 2 sisters and we are very close. So that bond that they share definitely touched my heart. There is feisty Jo, who is unapologetically herself. There is Meg, who is beautiful inside and out. Then there is determined, Amy. And last, but certainly not the least, sweet and fragile Beth. The story follows each of the March girls as they grow up during the time of the Civil War. It follows their friendships, their adventures, and their relationships.

What I love the most about this book is how each girl is very different in temperament and personality. They are also not perfect, they can be selfish and wish for silly things. But through tragedy and life experiences, they grow and they learn and they hold onto each other. It is difficult to choose a favorite sister because they all have something I admire.

I wish I had Jo’s courage. She does not care what the world thinks of her and her aspirations know no bounds.

Meg is kind and beautiful. After she becomes a mother, the story shows her struggles to be a wife and mother. At first glance, it seems silly and quite old-fashioned. But if you think about it, she was most likely struggling with postpartum anxiety or depression. Her mother tells her it is okay to ask for help. I think that is huge considering the time period. When I tell my friends who are about to become moms for the first time, that is the advice I give. Never be afraid to ask for help.

Beth’s kindness and understanding are beyond admirable. She is the peacekeeper.

Amy. Oh, Amy. Her aspirations have no limit either. She is an accomplished artist, but she wants to be the absolute best. She starts off very immature. (But she is just a child.) However, her development is wonderful by the end of the book.

I think this book might become a yearly read around Christmas. It absolutely touched my heart and I already want to read it again. This classic gets 5 out of 5 stars.