Four acclaimed female authors—Jane Smiley, Carmen Maria Machado, Kate Bolick, and Jenny Zhang—reflect on their engagement with Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel, Little Women. Each author explores their personal connection to the novel, taking on the role of one of the four March sisters. Kate Bolick examines Meg’s glamour at the Moffats’ ball and her complicated relationship with clothes. Jenny Zhang confesses to disliking Jo initially but later finds much of herself in the character. Carmen Maria Machado delves into the real-life tragedy of Lizzie Alcott, the inspiration for Beth, and the horror of not controlling one’s life narrative. Jane Smiley rehabilitates Amy’s reputation, portraying her as a modern feminist role model. These voices unite to offer a profound, humorous, and extensive meditation on literature’s transformative power. (This book may contain a sharpie mark on the top or bottom edge and may show mild signs of shelfwear.)