Little Women

Summary

The most famous coming-of-age novel from the canon of world literature.

United States, 1860s. In the March family, while their father is away fighting in the Civil War, four daughters are cared for by their mother, who is clearly ahead of her time, instilling in the girls ideals of freedom and encouraging them to find their own path in life.

Mrs. March's daughters – proper Meg, spirited Jo, shy Beth, and somewhat precocious Amy – try to add variety to their life marked by constant lack of money, although they painfully feel the shortage and miss their father. Whether they're planning games or forming secret societies, they spread their enthusiasm to everyone. Even Laurie, a lonely boy from the neighboring house, and his mysterious, wealthy grandfather fall under their spell. The young heir looks with envy at the Marches' modest home, for who wouldn't want to warm themselves in its comfort? Who could refuse the friendship of four girls with dramatically different personalities but equally good hearts?

A book that has been connecting generations for a century and a half.