Little Men

Little Men by Louisa May Alcott is one of my very favorite books by Louisa May Alcott’s. It is humorous and very clever, and a companion to Little Women a well known earlier book in the series. In my opinion Little Men is an even better book than Little Women, it is lighthearted and funny, and no…. It isn’t just for boys, it’s a girl book too! It also makes a great family read-aloud! The storyline continues with Jo after she has married the Professor. Together they started a school for (mainly) boys at Plumfield, an estate that was left to her by Aunt March. The school is attended by several boys…and two girls as well! The main character, Nat Blake is a hard shell to crack, and Mr. and Mrs. Bhaer are constantly trying to help Nat learn the importance of honesty, while they help a more troubled boy, Dan Kean get on the straight and narrow. The two girls are a playful accent to the story, Nan Harding is a complete tomboy, and strives to be a doctor. Daisy Brooke is a sweet girl and a very good cook. Even with their differences the girls get along quite well. Jo and Mr. Bhaer’s way of teaching, is to encourage personal growth, time in nature, academics, exploration, responsibility, hard work, creativity, music and the arts, and good manners. A truly wonderful approach to teaching young boys (and girls!) How to become better people, and how to use individual and unique skills in everyday life. This book is a truly wonderful story, and I think it is one that everyone should read.