Little Men (Annotated with Biography of Alcott and Plot Analysis)

Book excerpt: Little Men focuses on Plumfield School that Jo and her husband, Professor Bhaer, run on an estate inherited from Jo’s Aunt March. The education that the children receive at Plumfield is based largely on the philosophical ideas of the author’s father, Bronson Alcott, who was a teacher and philosopher. Louisa May Alcott included plot lines that reflected her own philosophy of equal education and opportunities for girls. The book follows the trials and tribulations of other students in the school and ultimately, the Bhaers win them over and their school provides the youngsters with a secure and loving environment in which they can thrive. This annotated edition includes a biography and critical essay.