Louisa May Alcott (1832–88) was an American novelist, poet and short story writer. She drew inspiration for her writing from her family life. She grew up with three sisters, Abigail, Elizabeth and Anna, and their relationships are often said to have inspired her best known work, Little Women (1868) and its sequels Little Men (1871) and Jo’s Boys (1886). Little Women proved popular from its publication, elevating Alcott’s career. She was one of the most successful writers of the nineteenth century and is today considered one of the all-time literary greats.
Judith John (glossary) is a writer and editor specializing in literature and history. She has worked as an editor on major educational projects, including English A: Literature for the Pearson International Baccalaureate series. Judith’s major research interests include Romantic and Gothic literature, and Renaissance drama.
