September 18, 2014

Time  11.00 a.m. to 12.15 p.m.

Residence of:              Yasmin Assur

                   Little Women

Little Women chronicles the story of four sisters: Jo, Beth, Meg and Amy March from childhood to womanhood. Set in the New England area of the US, the girls are raised only by their mother as their father is fighting in the American Civil War. This story recounts their attempts to contribute to the family income, their social relationships and attempts at falling in love.

Louisa May Alcott’s classical novel is believed to be autobiographical with the four “Little Women” representing Louisa and her sisters, Anna, Lizzie and May. Although published in 1869 the story is still relevant with its emphasis on domesticity, work and true love.  It has been read as a family drama that validates virtue over wealth, also as a story about women who understand gender constraints but don’t necessarily accept it. The success of “Little Women” helped Alcott pay off her family debts.

Book for October: The Wide Saragasso Sea by Jean Rhys

Book for November: The Testament of Mary by Colm Toibin

Vidya Srinivas                                                            Elizabeth Milne