Little Women

Little Women is a novel by American author Louisa May Alcott, published in two volumes in 1868 and 1869. Loosely based on Alcott’s own experiences growing up with three sisters, the book was an immediate commercial success and has remained in print ever since.

The story follows the four March sisters — Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy — as they grow from childhood to adulthood in Civil War-era New England. With their father away serving as a chaplain, the sisters navigate poverty, ambition, love, and loss under the guidance of their devoted mother, Marmee.

Widely regarded as one of the most beloved American novels, Little Women helped redefine fiction for young readers by presenting complex, independent female characters. It has been adapted into numerous films, television series, and stage productions.