Little Women Book One Book and Charm (Charming Classics)

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Summary: Little women, growing up
Review: Louisa May Alcott wrote many books, but "Little Women" retains a special place in the heart of American literature. Her warmly realistic stories, sense of comedy and tragedy, and insights into human nature make the romance, humor and sweet stories of "Little Women" come alive.

It opens with the four March girls -- practical Meg, rambunctious Jo, sweet Beth and childish artist Amy -- lamenting their poverty at Christmastime. Their father is away in the Civil War, so they live in a rambling old house with their mother Marmee. But their determination to stay upbeat and generous wins them a new friend: Laurie, a lonely rich boy with a wild streak, living in the house next door.

With tomboyish Jo in the lead, the girls keep their spirits up with writing, gardening, homemade plays, and the occasional romp with wealthier pals. And they go through the growing pains of young adulthood: a young man vying for Meg's love and attention, learning to "carry their burdens" and work hard, and Beth nearly dying of scarlet fever.

There's a clearly autobiographical tone to "Little Women." Not surprising -- the March girls really are like the girls next door. Alcott wrote them with flaws and strengths, and their misadventures -- like Jo's runaway mouth and Amy's "lime" humiliation -- have the feeling of authenticity.

Sure, usually classics are hard to read. But "Little Women" is mainly daunting because of its length; the actual stories flow nicely and smoothly. Don't think it's just a book for teenage girls, either -- adults and boys can appreciate it as well. There's something for everyone: drama, romance, humor, sad and happy endings alike.

Alcott's writing itself is nicely detailed. The stories themselves seem very fresh and could easily be seen in a modern home. And as nauseating as "heartwarming" stories sometimes are, these definitely qualify. Sometimes, especially in the beginning, Alcott is a bit too preachy and hamhanded. But her touch becomes defter as she writes on.

Jo is the quintessential tomboy, and the best character in the book: rough, gawky, fun-loving, impulsive, with a love of literature and a mouth that is slightly too big. Meg's love of luxury adds a flaw to the "perfect little homemaker" image, and Beth just avoids being shown as too saintly. Amy is an annoying little brat throughout much of the book, but becomes far more pleasant at the end.

"Little Women" is one of those rare classic novels that is still relevant, funny, fresh and heartbreaking today. And the second half, "Good Wives," could be considered even better.