An insight into children's literature : a reading of Luisa May Alcott's little women

Abstract EN

Drawing on the nature and development of children's literature in the English Language, the present paper provides a reading of Luisa May Alcott's Little Women, a book with which young readers have instantly fallen in love.

The novel traces the lives of four sisters who belong to a poor but loving family.

In this paper, the researcher attempts to show how each of the four sisters is determined to accomplish her ambitions and attain her aspirations.

With their father off to war, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy March have only their mother left to be an inspiring power for them.

The wise mother nurtures her young daughters with love and self-dependence, encouraging them to adhere to their love for each other and become the best version of themselves at all times.

Throughout their lives, the four girls go through success and failure, love and loss, and do learn to face life, bear responsibility, and support each other.

Alcott vividly depicts the passage of the four sisters from early childhood into adulthood as they remarkably grow into perfect 'little women' who can outstandingly achieve their goals in life.

Finally, the paper presents a number of critical issues related to women and their stance in society.

More importantly, the example of the four girls in Little Women provides young readers with an insight into how to plan for their lives, achieve the success they yearn for, and accordingly contribute to the stability and happiness of their families.