Discovering Literature Anew: 20 Books Like Little Women
If you’ve been charmed by the classic “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott, you’re not alone. Featuring characters we grow to love – Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy – the book draws us into their intimate world, shaping us as readers and individuals.
If you’re yearning to find books that deliver the same warmth, depth of characters and captivating storytelling, we’ve curated a list of 20 books similar to “Little Women” for you to explore.
The 20 best books to read if you liked “Little Women”
1. “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett.
Mary Lennox, a spoiled and lonely girl, finds a key to a secret, magical garden. Her life, and those around her, change as the garden flourishes.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Engaging coming-of-age narrative.
- Features strong, resilient female characters.
- Themes of family, friendship, and personal growth.
2. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen.
This romantic novel follows the lives of the Bennet sisters and explores themes of marriage, morality, and misconceptions.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Displays deep family bonds.
- Engages with social expectations and love.
- Insightful exploration of female characters.
3. “Anne of Green Gables” by L.M. Montgomery.
A lively orphan girl, Anne Shirley, is adopted by elderly siblings and brings joy, drama, and imagination into their lives.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Strong-willed, independent female protagonist.
- Focuses on themes of family, friendship, and the value of imagination.
- Adorable, amusing moments interspersed with deep emotional insight.
4. “Little House on the Prairie” by Laura Ingalls Wilder.
An autobiographical series depicting the author’s journey with her pioneer family across the American frontier.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Depicts the joys and trials of family life.
- Emphasizes resilience, resourcefulness, and determination.
- Offers insights into a specific historical time period.
5. “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë.
Tells the story of strong-willed Jane Eyre, an orphan who becomes a governess and falls for her brooding employer, Mr. Rochester.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- An enduring female protagonist fighting for her beliefs and desires.
- Highlights love, self-respect, and open-mindedness.
- Presents romantic struggles and female independence in a patriarchal society.
6. “Pollyanna” by Eleanor H. Porter.
A cheerful orphan transforms a grumpy town with her positivity and the contagious “glad game.”
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- A lively, lovable female protagonist at its focus.
- Sheds light on simple joys and staying positive amid adversities.
- The importance of compassion and understanding.
7. “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn” by Betty Smith.
A young girl, Francie Nolan, grows up poor in Brooklyn and finds refuge in her imagination and a love for books.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Chronicles personal growth and resilience against adversity.
- Highlights the transformative power of literature.
- Subtle exploration of societal norms and expectations.
8. “Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm” by Kate Douglas Wiggin.
A bright and charming girl, Rebecca, goes to live with two stern aunts and makes her world brighter with her imagination and spirit.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- A vivacious, endearing female protagonist.
- Strikes a balance between humor and emotion.
- Themes of creativity, individuality, and keeping one’s spirits high.
9. “Heidi” by Johanna Spyri.
The story of Heidi, a delightful Swiss girl who brings happiness to everyone around her and enjoys life in the mountains.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Strong bonding with nature is emphasized.
- Endearing sibling-like relationships.
- Themes revolve around homesickness, friendship, and the joy of simple living.
10. “Middlemarch” by George Eliot.
Set in the fictitious town of Middlemarch, the narrative explores human frailty, societal norms, and the struggle of idealism.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Deeply complex, evolving female characters.
- Exploration of romantic life amid societal expectations.
- A comprehensive reflection on the nature of a community.
11. “North and South” by Elizabeth Gaskell.
Telling the story of Margaret Hale, a Southerner who moves to the northern industrial town of Milton — a clash of perspectives and values ensues.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- A strong, principled female protagonist.
- Tackles social issues and prejudices.
- Examines the dynamics of love and societal expectations.
12. “A Little Princess” by Frances Hodgson Burnett.
The story of Sara Crewe, a wealthy girl sent to a boarding school who finds herself in poverty after her father’s death.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Prominent themes of resilience and kindness.
- Strong female relationships.
- The importance of imagination and positivity.
13. “David Copperfield” by Charles Dickens.
Following the growth of David Copperfield from childhood to maturity, with all his experiences — love, friendship, struggle.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Detailed character development.
- Features a strong sense of family and friendship.
- Addresses societal norms and the quest for individuality.
14. “Wives and Daughters” by Elizabeth Gaskell.
Molly Gibson wrestles with her feelings when her father remarries and introduces a new stepmother and stepsister into the picture.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Focus on female relationships and family dynamics.
- Exploration of societal expectations and roles.
- The setting of the everyday life against overarching themes of love and ambition.
15. “Sense and Sensibility” by Jane Austen.
It tells the tale of the Dashwood sisters — Elinor and Marianne — as they navigate love, societal pressures, and financial hardships.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Strong, complex female characters.
- Themes of love, responsibility, and societal expectations.
- An underscoring lesson of the importance of balance in life.
16. “Howard’s End” by E.M. Forster.
A tale of class struggle in turn-of-the-century England as personified in three families — the Schlegels, Wilcoxes, and Basts.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Exploration of societal and cultural norms.
- Strong focus on relationships and personal growth.
- Characters grappling with change and tradition.
17. “Great Expectations” by Charles Dickens.
Following the life of Pip, a young boy from a working-class upbringing, who is suddenly thrust into wealth by a secret benefactor.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Bildungsroman explores character growth against societal backdrop.
- Emphasizes moral and personal development.
- Balances romance and personal ambition.
18. “Eight Cousins” by Louisa May Alcott.
A tale of Rose Campbell, an orphan who goes to live with her multiple aunts and uncles and her seven male cousins.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- Written by the author of “Little Women,” posits similar themes.
- Strong focus on family bonds.
- Prominent coming-of-age narrative.
19. “Daddy-Long-Legs” by Jean Webster.
An epistolary novel about orphan Jerusha “Judy” Abbott and her relationship with her anonymous benefactor whom she nicknames “Daddy-Long-Legs.”
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- A young, spirited female protagonist.
- An epistolary format that gives us deeper insights into the character.
- Themes of gratitude, ambition, love, and independence.
20. “The Age of Innocence” by Edith Wharton.
The dilemma of Newland Archer, who is torn between the woman he is expected to marry and the woman he loves.
Elements in common with “Little Women”:
- An insightful exploration of societal expectations and norms.
- Characters grappling with personal desires versus responsibilities.
- Examination of love, loyalty, and societal expectations.
In the world of literature, there are many treasures waiting to be discovered. Each of these twenty books shares elements that made us fall in love with “Little Women,” whether it’s the profound character development, depiction of deep sisterly love, the charms of daily life, or the exploration of female strength.
We hope you find these recommendations valuable as you continue your literary journey.
