As we know, Louisa May Alcott’s debut novel “Little Women” was inspired largely by her own life, with the exception of the love interests in the book, which were fictionalized. In “Little Men,” the sequel to “Little Women,” we find a heart-warming and fascinating story, but we must realize that this book is completely fictional.
Jo has inherited Plumfield from her Aunt March. It’s a huge, sprawling place with lots of property, and it’s perfect for a school. Jo decides to open a boys’ school, and with the help of her husband, Professor Bhaer, sets up a beautiful facility. The Bhaers have two sons, Rob and Teddy.
Amy’s husband Laurie is heir to quite a fortune, and he has used his money wisely. He built a lovely home for Amy and their daughter Bess, and he uses much of the remains to fund scholarships to Plumfield for disadvantaged boys, not only helping them but helping Jo stay running.
Meg lives nearby, raising her twins Demi and Daisy, who now have a little sister as well. Demi and Daisy attend Plumfield as students.
The book, while held up by the framework of the March family adults, basically revolves around the children. There’s Nat, the sensitive violinist. Dan, the rough-housing loose cannon. Emil, Professor Bhaer’s nephew. Tommy, the rapscallion. Nan, the only non-related girl in the bunch, a tomboy through and through who wants to be a doctor. She practices her “skills” on the boys whenever they get a cut or scrape.
Jo is still an author, and here and there throughout the book, mention is made of her writing career. I remember one scene where adoring fans are gathered on the lawn of Plumfield, hoping to catch a glimpse of her, while she runs through the house, trying to find a room with no windows where she can hide. But these looks at Jo are infrequent; the main focus of the story is on the students.
I loved reading about these children, the scrapes they would get into, and how their lives were changed by having the solid foundation of Plumfield to fall back on. A peaceful and yet emotionally gripping book that takes you away to another place and time, you will love “Little Men.”
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