Reviews with content warning for Misogyny - Little Women

I really wanted to like this book, but was disappointed. I have watched the movie, which was excellent, and that had my hopes high for this book. I think the movie encompasses not only this book but the sequels, because this book ends with

beth still alive and meg not yet married

. I just felt like nothing happened, it was very boring. Also the language used is very old-fashioned, as it was written in 1868, and I didn’t understand some phrases. There were misogynistic undertones, as being from that time it was expected that women stay at home and marry rich. It really wasn’t engaging. I read it from 14-16th Feb 2022 as part of the dymocks 2021 reading challenge for 'book based on truth'.

Content Warnings

cadybooks's review against another edition

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hopeful reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

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bexi's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Content Warnings

lindseyhall44's review against another edition

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emotional slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

When writing this review, I tried to embrace my inner Jo March and “let genius burn,” as she so fiercely put it. Everything discussed will be spoiler free of course, I just couldn’t think of a better beginning than quoting such a beloved feminist character. To be honest, I wasn’t prepared to be so affected by the novel, especially since there is minimal plot. However, I was enraptured, which speaks volumes of Alcott’s writing and character development.
The gender roles regulated by society during the civil war times are one catalyst for the term “little women,” but also the social commentary on class and wealth, which will always be a desired goal no matter the time period. During the 1860’s, each sister becomes a governess in their own way in order to support the family, progressing into womanhood at a quick rate. Though the March sisters grow up under the same intellectual hand, each has various aspirations which diverge difference roads for different women. There’s Beth (my personal favorite), Amy, Meg, and Jo, as we gain unique perspectives on what being a girl-and eventually a women- really means to them. While morals direct many points of this book, I truly understand why Little Women is a passed on classic. The writing may take a moment to get used to, but I would definitely recommend if you are looking for a wholesome read or want to get into classics.
*I usually don’t rate classics but this one felt different:)

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