Louisa May Alcott

Louisa May Alcott was an American novelist. She was born in Germantown, Pennsylvania, in 1832. She wrote the beloved novel Little Women. The story of the four March sisters has been loved by readers for over 150 years.

Early Life

Alcott grew up in a family that valued education and social justice. Her father was a philosopher but could not earn much money. Louisa worked from a young age to help support her family. She was a teacher, seamstress, and writer.

A studio photograph of the writer Louisa May Alcott.
A studio photograph of the writer Louisa May Alcott. (Adam Cuerden / Wikimedia Commons)

Big Achievements

Alcott wrote Little Women in 1868, based on her own life with her three sisters. The book was an immediate success. She wrote sequels including Little Men and Jo's Boys. Her books showed strong, independent female characters at a time when this was unusual.

Fun Facts

  • Alcott based the character Jo March on herself.
  • She served as a nurse during the Civil War.
  • She wrote some books under the pen name A.M. Barnard.

Did You Know?

Alcott was asked by her publisher to write a book for girls. She did not want to at first. But Little Women became one of the most beloved American novels ever written. It has been adapted into plays, TV shows, and several movies.