SPECIAL 150TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
One hundred and fifty years ago, at the request of her publisher, Louisa
May Alcott sat down reluctantly to write 'a girls' book'. Knowing that,
contrary to society's expectations, girls often had to be brave,
resourceful and bold, that the private lives of girls were colourful and
surprising, Alcott wrote a book in which girls would recognise
themselves. She drew on her own experiences and those of her
impoverished New England family in writing her new novel, and declared,
when she was finished, that it was better than she expected: 'Not a bit
sensational, but simple and true, for we really lived most of it, and if
it succeeds that will be the reason of it. . .'
Simple, true, and keenly resonant with life, spirit and affection,
Little Women did succeed, delighting readers across the world, and it
has never been out of print since its first publication in 1868.
Whichever sister you are drawn to, be it sensible, romantic Meg or
sweet, sunshiny Beth, whether you are burning with ambition like Jo, or
share with Amy the wish for a more beautiful nose, the March girls are
all irresistible, and will go on winning hearts and capturing
imaginations for the next 150 years to come.
Includes the sequel Good Wives.