Little Women

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. How did you feel about the shift in tone and focus between Part 1 and Part 2 of Little Women? Did your relationship with the story change as the March sisters matured from girls into women?

2. The novel has been adapted for screen many times, including Gillian Armstrong’s 1994 film and Greta Gerwig’s 2019 version. If you’ve seen any adaptations, how did they compare to the original text?

3. How does Alcott’s portrayal of sisterhood compare to other classic literary siblings, such as the Bennet sisters in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice?

4. Many readers have disagreed on Jo’s rejection of Laurie has been a point of disagreement for many readers. Do you think Professor Bhaer is ultimately a more suitable match for her than Laurie?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Each March sister has distinct personality traits and aspirations: Meg desires luxury and domesticity, Jo craves independence and literary success, Beth embodies selflessness, and Amy pursues refinement and artistic achievement. Which sister did you most identify with and why? Did this change as you progressed through the novel?