Little Women, a classic which was first published in 1868, is about four sisters–Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy–who learn, with their mother’s guidance, to overcome the many obstacles that come their way.
As the first scene opens, all the girls are complaining about the coming Christmas, for which their mother said no gifts would be purchased or exchanged due to the hard winter ahead of them, and the fact that their father was off fighting in the war. By the end of the book, however, all of the girls’ lives have changed drastically. Years older, and some of them married, they now are gracious and giving women, who have learned many life lessons.
While reading this book, I felt that the sisterly bond between all the girls was very strong. Jo and Beth have a special bond that is tested to the highest extent at one point in the story. This sisterly bond is not always perfect, however. Jo’s quick temper causes a fight between her and Amy, which leads to more issues. Their mother, like she does so many times in the novel, gives the girls advice to resolve the issue.
My favorite character or sister in the book is Jo. I found her to be a funny character, and I also liked how she acts like a tomboy when she is expected to act like a girl. It causes her to have a unique character and entertaining spirit. Jo reminds me of my own sister who can always find a way to make others laugh.
My favorite part of this book was seeing how the then young, selfish girls changed during the course of the book and how different their lives are at the end of the novel.
I believe this book has a right to be considered a classic because the plot and the book altogether are extremely well written and have scenes that may interest a variety of age groups. I would rate this book a 9 out of 10, because a few parts did not catch my attention as much as others. I would definitely recommend this novel to others who are interested in a realistic fictional read.
– Leila S., 8th grade
Mission Viejo Library Teen Voice 