Louisa May Alcott: America’s ‘Little Women’ Writer

This 19th-century writer inspires and entertains readers with her noble portrayal of family life during the Civil War.

Louisa May Alcott found adventure in writing stories. Fotosearch/Getty Images

I don’t understand the hed. The article explains that she wasn’t womanly, nor does she look “little.” Can we put “America’s ‘Little Women’ Writer”? sure. changed

“Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott (1832–1888) is one of those literary works whose fame is almost to its detriment. You’ve doubtless heard the title all your life, perhaps seen one or two of its film adaptations, maybe gone to a play based on the story, and probably read some or all of the novel in your high school literature class.