“Keep good company, read good books, love good things
and cultivate soul and body as faithfully as you can.”
Louisa May Alcott
Courtesy of Relaxing Music Life:
“Don’t limit yourself.
You can go as far as your mind lets you.
What you believe, you can achieve.”
Mary Kay Ash
Today’s post returns to the world of kindness, appreciation, and gratitude. The book is about the daily lives of families that had to work hard to survive events that included civil wars, political upheavals, and bad luck. And, overwhelmingly, how these stories can tell readers about human nature – and about the compassion, friendships, generosity, and gratitude that good books can breed.
LOUISA MAY ALCOTT
29 November 1832 – 6 March 1888
Courtesy of Brut America:
Louisa May Alcott was born in Pennsylvania and grew up in Concord, Massachusetts, the second of four daughters of a notable proponent of Transcendentalism, Bronson Alcott. Ralph Waldo Emerson was a friend of the family, as were Henry David Thoreau and Nathaniel Hawthorne. Sharing the ideals of many of their circle, the Alcotts devoted themselves to “plain living and thinking.”
Courtesy of GBH:
Despite her transcendentalist pedigree, however, Louisa May Alcott always kept her feet on the ground, working as a seamstress, a governess, a nurse, and, eventually, an author to contribute to the household income. Her most famous work, Little Women, is drawn from her own family life: it is among the most cherished and popular children’s books of all time.
“Lullaby” by Johannes Brahms, performed by Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott:
Ralph Waldo Emerson, a family friend
Within its comfortable domestic compass, many readers first discovered the importance of the questions:
Who am I, and who do I want to be?
Little Women (1868) was an immediate success on publication, selling a then-unprecedented 2,000 copies. The story is based on the author’s childhood memories of her parents and three sisters, and the character of Jo is said to be semi-autobiographical. The publisher urged her to produce more in the same vein, so Good Wives and Little Men followed, as well as many other novels.
Courtesy of Masterpiece PBS:
Little Women (1933)
Alcott campaigned for several political reforms during her lifetime, especially the women’s suffragette movement. She was dogged by ill-health, after she contracted typhoid while serving as a nurse during the Civil War and was treated with a mercury compound that effectively poisoned her; it was the cause of her death in 1888.
“Nocturne in C Sharp Minor” by Frédéric Chopin, performed by Hauser and London Symphony Orchestra:
There have been several screen versions of the novel, the most famous is the version starring Katharine Hepburn as Jo; more recent ones were released in 1994 with Winona Ryder in the role, and in 2019 with Saoirse Ronan.
Courtesy of Sony Pictures Entertainment:
LITTLE WOMEN
The central figure of the novel is Alcott’s alter ego, Jo March, a spirited fifteen-year-old tomboy who yearns to become a writer the way other girls dream of getting married. She lives with her three sisters at home with their mother, surviving on very little money, while their improvident army chaplain father is away during the American Civil War.
There is Meg, who’s beautiful but prone to vanity; hot-tempered Jo, who wants to be a writer, frail Beth, the sweet, quiet one; and Amy, who can be selfish at times. It is Christmas as the book opens, and Jo and her sisters – Meg is the oldest at sixteen, and Beth and Amy are thirteen and twelve respectively – are at home with their beloved mother, Marmee, while Mr. March is away. Initially, the girls pity themselves for being poor at Christmas, but a letter from their father prompts a pledge to improve themselves by working on their faults – vanity, temper, shyness – in order to make him proud when he returns:
“I’ll try and be what he loves to call me, ‘a little woman,’ and not be rough and wild; but do my duty here instead of wanting to be somewhere else,’ said Jo.
From the first line – ‘Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents’, grumbled Jo – Alcott taps a vein of realism and colloquial expression that was ahead of its time and that still retains its attraction. What follows is a tale of life, love, friendship, illness, and coming of age, one in which the ‘little women’ prove to have more courage, resourcefulness, and character than the adults who ostensibly hold sway over them.
More tellingly, Little Women is the story of four archetypal girls whose personalities remain familiar today; rare is a reader who doesn’t see herself, if only for an episode, as a Meg, a Jo, a Beth, or an Amy, fascinated by her reflection. The story will have you laughing one moment and crying the next. It is easy to understand why this is one of the most popular children’s books of all time.
An extract from Little Women:
“The clock struck six and, having swept up the hearth, Beth put a pair of slippers down to warm. Somehow the sight of the old shoes had a good effect upon the girls, for mother was coming, and everyone brightened to welcome her. Meg stopped lecturing and lighted the lamp. Amy got out of the easy chair without being asked, and Jo forgot how tired she was as she sat up to hold the slippers nearer to the blaze.
‘They are quite worn out. Marmee must have a new pair.’
‘I thought I’d get some with my dollar,’ said Beth.
‘No, I shall!’ cried Meg.
‘I am the oldest,’ began Meg, but Jo butted in with a decided,
‘I’m the man of the family now papa is away, and I shall provide the slippers, for he told me to take special care of mother while he was gone.’
‘I’ll tell you what we will do,’ said Beth, ‘let’s each get her something for Christmas, and not get anything for ourselves.’
‘That’s like you, dear! What will we get?’ exclaimed Jo. Everyone thought soberly for a minute, then Meg announced as if the idea was suggested by the sight of her own pretty hands, ‘I shall give her a nice pair of gloves.’
‘Army shoes, best to be had,’ cried Jo.
‘Some handkerchiefs, all hemmed,’ said Beth.
‘I will get a little bottle of cologne. She likes it, and it, and it won’t cost much, so I will have some left to buy something for me’ added Amy.
‘How will we give the things?’ asked Meg.
‘Put them on the table, bring her in and see her open the bundles. Don’t you remember how we used to do on our birthdays?’ answered Jo.
‘I used to be so frightened when it was my turn to sit in the big chair with the crown on, and see all of you come marching round to give the presents, with a kiss. I liked the things and the kisses, but it was dreadful to have you sit looking at me while I opened the bundles,’ said Beth, who was toasting her face and the bread for tea at the same time.
‘Let Marmee think we are getting things for ourselves, and then surprise her. We must go shopping tomorrow afternoon, Meg.”
Just a final wish to my readers for a very happy start to spring and Mothering Sunday!
“Only Time” by Enya (courtesy of EnchantedEscape)
naturetails 
Dear Joanna Ji, 🙏
Reading your post felt like stepping into the sanctum of a quiet temple where every word echoes gently yet leaves a lasting resonance. The way you interwove Louisa May Alcott’s life, the social fabric of her times, and the enduring human values at the heart of her writing was profoundly thoughtful. Your narrative did not merely inform; it invited reflection, and with every paragraph stirred both questions and answers within the reader. That, I believe, is the hallmark of true literary insight.
The manner in which you connected Alcott’s simplicity with her idealism her family’s transcendental heritage with their very real, earthly struggles presented a philosophy that remains relevant even today. To live simply, yet be inwardly noble, is a legacy far more needed now than ever. Your interpretation reminded us that literature is not merely a form of artistic delight; it is a silent educator, a shaper of character, and a gentle purifier of society’s moral consciousness.
Kindness, gratitude, and generosity these virtues in your post did not appear as abstract moral ideals, but as real-life forces that helped families endure hardship, conflict, illness, and loss. In your telling, historical events ceased to be mere episodes; they became stages where humanity was tested, humbled, and exalted. This philosophical depth urges the reader to look beyond external success and understand that true victory lies in the refinement of character and the awakening of compassion.
The way you blended history, music, and memory was particularly beautiful. Brahms’ lullaby, Chopin’s nocturne these were not just musical mentions, but emotional textures that broadened the experience of reading. They transformed the narrative into an atmosphere almost like a living painting where one could pause and truly feel the spirit of the moment.
Several passages from Little Women that you highlighted resonated strongly: Jo’s self-searching yearning, the unspoken bond among sisters, and the nobility hidden in the smallest acts of sacrifice. You revived these moments with such sensitivity that they reminded us of a timeless truth extraordinary strength often resides in ordinary people, and small acts of love can illuminate an entire lifetime.
Philosophically speaking, your post conveys two essential insights:
first, that the inner measure of a life far exceeds outward accomplishments; and second, that the seemingly ordinary stories of ordinary people become mirrors in which societies across eras recognize their own identity. You framed these mirrors with such elegance that every reader may discover a reflection of their own journey.
Thank you for illuminating the subtleties the struggle of writing, the fight for women’s rights, the conflict between imagination and reality within an author’s soul. Your post restores literature to its rightful place: at the center of moral contemplation, emotional refinement, and social empathy something desperately needed today.
I am truly grateful for this thoughtful, tender, and richly layered presentation. It offered both the pleasure of reading and the deepening of understanding. Please continue to enrich us with such mindful and beautifully articulated reflections.
With warm regards and heartfelt appreciation,
Vijay
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Dear Vijay, I cannot find words to express my appreciation and gratitude for your wonderfully perceptive comments! With extraordinary readers like you, writing my posts is a great pleasure! You made my day!
Joanna
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Dear Joanna,
Your kind words mean more than I can express. It is always a joy to read your wonderfully researched, heartfelt posts, and an even greater joy to share a few thoughts with you in return.
Thank you for your generosity of spirit, your warmth, and the light you bring to your readers.
Wishing you a peaceful, restful, and truly lovely night.
May tomorrow greet you with gentle inspiration.
Good night, dear Joanna.
Warm regards,
Vijay
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Very timely, Joanna. I adored Little Women since I first read it before starting the 4th grade. I have read it multiple times since, including the sequels, Little Men and Jo’s Boys. All of these books are written from Luisa May Alcott’s (aka Jo’s) point of view. I am now finishing a book called The Other March Sisters by Linda Epstein, Ally Malinenko, and Liz Parker and highly recommend it to LIttle Women fans. Meg and Beth each have their own chapters while Amy has two. The book is set in the period when Jo is an aspiring writer in New York City and has met the Professor who she eventually marries, Amy is on her grand tour of Europe and Meg is married and the mother of year old twins. Beth is living at home and coming to terms with being in poor health, the sole daughter living at home and the limitations of being perceived as the “House Angel.”I think the authors have been very true to the events of Little Women and it is a thrill to get to know the other three sisters better. Amy even shares a letter from Laurie offering his perspective on why Jo turned down his marriage proposal which probably helped prompt her sudden move to New York City.
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Thank you, dear Vijay, for your kind reply, and wishing you a peaceful night.
Joanna
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What a beautifully crafted and deeply moving post. Joanna, you have such a gift for connecting timeless wisdom to the stories that shape us. The way you wove Mary Kay Ash’s empowering quote into the world of Louisa May Alcott was simply brilliant. You reminded us that the “mind” that lets us go far is often nourished by the very compassion, generosity, and gratitude found in books like Little Women.
Your summary of the novel and its author was not just informative, but heartfelt. You captured the essence of why this story has resonated for generations—it’s in those authentic, relatable moments of sisterhood, sacrifice, and striving to be better. The excerpt you chose, with the sisters pooling their resources for their mother’s slippers, is a perfect, poignant example of the book’s enduring spirit.
Thank you for this wonderful return to kindness and appreciation. It was the perfect read, especially with your warm wishes for spring and Mothering Sunday. A truly enchanting escape, just like the beautiful music you paired it with.
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Thank you so much, dear Narasimhan, for the wonderfully thoughtful comments, which I love and greatly appreciate!
Joanna
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Thank you, Pat, for the wonderfully interesting comments and the review of the book linked to my post, which I like very much and greatly appreciate!
Joanna
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My.pleasure, Joanna. The timing was too exquisite and I have enjoyed introducing other Little Women fans to this serendipitous find at the local library.
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Thank you again, Pat, I will look it up.
Joanna
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A true classic work inspired by the author’s own aspirations, trials and tribulations and written from the heart. Lousia gave of herself to others and the cause and her books likely inspired many other young girls to do the same. Have a wonderful day Joanna. Allan
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Really hope you do. Let me know what you think of it.
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Thank you so much, Allan, for the beautiful comments, which are greatly appreciated!
Joanna
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Will do, Pat.
Joanna
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Thanks, Joanna.xxx
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You are welcome, Pat!
Joanna
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What a beautifully written and deeply moving post. Joanna . I’ve loved Little Women ever since I first read it in elementary school, and I’ve reread it several times.
I also loved the movies based on it.
Thank you for sharing this wonderful tribute to Louisa May Alcott and her great novel.
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Thank you, dear Luisa, for the wonderful comments, which I love and greatly appreciate!
Joanna
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Always a pleasure, dear Joanna!
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It’s amazing that she, Hawthorne, Thoreau and Emerson all lived near each other and knew each other. A true concentration of talent and intellect!
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Little Women was a favourite book. I liked Jo and wanted to be like her. Katherine Hepburn was of course perfect for the part. What a different world it was for Alcott. Better in many ways but certainly not all. How lovely it must be to look after Orchard House. As ever, you give us such a delightful collection of videos (I love those animals!), music and pictures. Many thanks Joanna.
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Thank you, Carolyn, for the wonderful comments, which I love and greatly appreciate!
Joanna
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Yes, indeed, Neil, the intellect of others is a great help in expanding our own minds. Thank you, Neil, for your thoughtful comments, which are greatly appreciated!
Joanna
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This is an engaging post on Little Women, Louisa May Alcott’s semi-autobiographical novel that beautifully captures the journey of four archetypal sisters as they transition from childhood to womanhood during the American Civil War. With their father serving as an army chaplain, the story centres on the sisters’ moral and personal growth. Alongside their wealthy yet lonely neighbour, Laurie, they confront challenges such as poverty and vanity, learn to rise above their shortcomings, and ultimately find their own paths to happiness.
Though the narrative may seem simple, it carries depth, reflecting Alcott’s progressive views. An independent woman and an early advocate for women’s rights, her reformist spirit is woven throughout the novel. I am especially drawn to works that celebrate kindness, generosity, and gratitude that resonate strongly in this story.
Alcott’s passion for social reform shines through her writing, and your unique presentation of this classic, enhanced by evocative videos, particularly the mother and baby clip, and thoughtfully chosen images, makes one want to revisit it again and again.
With a personal library exceeding ten thousand books, you are truly a living library. Even more impressive is your remarkable ability to select works that have shaped generations and present them in such a captivating way.
Thank you, Joanna, for yet another meticulously researched and beautifully curated post.
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Thank you so much, Kaushal, for the wonderfully thoughtful comments, which I love and greatly appreciate! Your kind words made my day!
Joanna
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It’s truly my pleasure, Joanna. My only regret is that I’m often slow to comment on your posts, as I like to take my time and savour them.
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I am happy that you read and comment, Kaushal, no matter when.
Joanna
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Thank you for a wonderful post on Louisa May Alcott. I always appreciate the background info on the authors that you provide; it is nice to learn a bit about them. Also, Little Women was a favorite that I hadn’t thought about in years. Thanks again.
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Thank you, Diana, for the wonderful comments, which are greatly appreciated!
Joanna
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This is one of my favorite childhood books! Love seeing your thoughts on the characters and author here.
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Thank you, Layla, for your kind comments, which are greatly appreciated.
Joanna
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This is quite an absorbing blog on ‘The Little Women’ ,a very popular childrens book of all times by great author,Louisa May Alcott, Your post opening with meaningful thoughts by two American writers “Keep good company, read good books, love good things and cultivate soul and body as faithfully as you can.” :Louisa May Alcott(American novelist & short story writer) & “Don’t limit yourself. You can go as far as your mind lets you. What you believe, you can achieve.” :Mary Kay Ash (an American business women )is great !I felt mesmerised going throgh the Relaxing Music Life featuring a mother & her baby alongwith other great videos !Thanks for sharing such an enriching post ,Joanna.
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Thank you so much, Dhirendra, for the wonderful comments, which I love and which made my day!
Joanna
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It was my pleasure going through your very enriching & mesmerising post full of love & compassion for all kinds of living beings on this Holy Earth! Thanks again for sharing,Joanna! Namaste
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Thank you so much, Dhirendra, for your overwhelming kindness! Namaste.
Joanna
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🙏🏻
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Another wonderful author / book! Loved the 1949 version of the film.
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Thank you, Monica, for your kind comments, which are much appreciated
Joanna.
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It is an inspiring text that celebrates reading as a source of humanity, empathy, and inner growth. It highlights how good books, like Little Women, convey universal values—love, effort, gratitude, and courage—that continue to give meaning to life and help us understand who we are and who we want to become.
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Thank you, Lincol, for the wonderful comments, which are greatly appreciated!
Joanna
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