Little Women

This Penguin Classics edition of Louisa May Alcott's inspiring tale of sisterhood is edited with an introduction by Elaine Showalter. The story of four 'little women'—Meg, Jo, Amy, and Beth—and their wise mother Marmee was an instant success upon its 1868 publication. Set against the backdrop of Civil War New England, the March sisters have captured the hearts of readers for generations. Fans have cheered for Laurie in his pursuit of Jo, mourned little Beth's death, and imagined traveling through Europe with Aunt March and Amy. Jo's dedication to writing has inspired future authors. This edition includes both parts of the tale and features Showalter's insightful introduction, which explores Alcott's influences and the novel's impact on women writers like Joyce Carol Oates and Cynthia Ozick. Additional notes on the text by Siobhan Kilfeather and Vinca Showalter enhance the reading experience. Alcott (1832-1888) was surrounded by notable American writers and drew from her experiences as a volunteer nurse during the Civil War, publishing works like Hospital Sketches before creating this beloved classic. If you enjoyed this tale, you might also appreciate Elizabeth Gaskell's Wives and Daughters, available in Penguin Classics.