Little Women: "Conceit spoils the finest genius."

Louisa May Alcott's Little Women is a classic of American fiction originally published as two consecutive books (Little Women and Good Wives) that were later combined into one volume. Told in a largely autobiographical manner, the novel follows an ordinary American family living in Concord, Massachusetts. When the father leaves for war, the four sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—along with their mother must manage their own affairs. As their financial circumstances decline, Meg and Jo find employment while Amy attends school and Beth remains at home. Jo is the most daring sister and assumes the role of head of household in her father's absence. She develops a friendship with their neighbor's son, Theodore Laurence, who becomes like a fifth member of the family. The narrative chronicles the various adventures and activities the girls and Theodore share together. When Theodore later declares his love for Jo, she declines, explaining that she regards him as a brother. Theodore eventually accepts this and pursues another relationship. Meg and Amy each find romantic partners, while Jo focuses on her writing. By the novel's end, Jo also appears to experience romantic feelings.