The Little Women Devotional: A Chapter-by-Chapter Companion to Louisa May Alcott’s Beloved Classic

by Rachel Dodge

Devotional Inspiration from the Lives of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy
 
The Little Women Devotional offers lovely inspiration that explores the themes of faith, family, contentment, wisdom, and joy in the classic Louisa May Alcott novel, cherished by generations of readers.

Each reading corresponds with a chapter from the book and invites you to embrace God’s guiding hand in your life as His cherished daughter. This beautiful chapter-by-chapter devotional includes original artwork throughout, and each reading includes examples from the novel, scripture, life application, and prayers perfect for groups, book clubs, or personal reflection.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Classics, Books About Books, Devotional, Theology, Christianity

224 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 2021

About the author

Rachel Dodge is the bestselling author of the award-winning Anne of Green Gables Devotional, The Little Women Devotional, and Praying with Jane: 31 Days Through the Prayers of Jane Austen. Rachel's newest book is The Secret Garden Devotional! Rachel teaches college English classes, gives talks at libraries, teas, and book clubs, and is a writer for the popular Jane Austen's World blog. She is passionate about encouraging and equipping women to grow closer to Jesus through prayer and the study of God's Word. A true kindred spirit at heart, Rachel enjoys books, bonnets, and ball gowns.

Reviews

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been eager to get my hands on one of Rachel Dodge’s literature linked devotionals for a while now, so I was thrilled to read this one that connects to one of my favorite classic novels, Little Women. It’s perfect to read along with a chapter of the novel a day or by itself as I did. The book itself is beautiful. Petite but sturdy, and the illustrations are darling. I already can’t wait to read it again! It’s definitely going to be something I consider as a gift for my reader friends.

I received a complimentary copy of this book; a positive review was mot required, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Abigail McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Little Women has been a favorite of mine for a while, so when I learned that this book was being released, I knew I needed to read it. And much like its inspiration, I absolutely loved it.

It's always hard to rate/review devotionals, because reading one is such a subjective experience. What speaks to one may not speak to another, but I have to say that this one spoke to me. Specifically, at this point in my life, chapters 15 and 26. Here's the thing I loved most - this isn't a devotional just for new Christians, or just for those who've been followers for a long time. So many devotionals are for one or the other, but there's something for everyone in here, no matter where they are in their walk with Christ. And I think that's pretty great.

Overall, it was lovely to get to revisit the March family, and learn some lessons about faith along the way. The illustrations are also gorgeous and I adored them.

Five stars from me!

**I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This devotional was such a joy to read! I loved the way the author took one passage from each chapter of the book, explained the setting and situation, and then applied a Biblical truth that was then supported by multiple Bible verses. There was then a personal application setting and a prayer included.

The artwork was so pretty in this devotional and added to the cozy feel of the book. I appreciated the gentle feel that each daily devotional had. I have not read Little Women but have watched the various movies throughout the years. The feeling of warmth, belonging, and family definitely permeate the pages of this book. I enjoyed the combination of a peek into the Little Women novel while also being given something to focus on for the day that comes from both the story and the Bible.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Becka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fans of Little Women are in for a treat with this little devotional. Formatted similarly to her Anne of Green Gables devotional, Rachel Dodge mixes excerpts from Little Women with a scripture-based devotion on topics relevant both to the March sisters and to people today. Each devotion ends with a thoughtful prayer, and the illustrations interspersed throughout the book are beautiful. I especially enjoyed the topics of family and joy, since those topics are an absolutely perfect to a Little Women theme.

Thanks go to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Little Women is my favorite book so naturally I was so excited when I saw this devotional. It seemed like the perfect, cozy devo for my Little Women-loving heart.❤️

This devotional was everything I’d hoped it would be. From the beautiful, cozy illustrations to the devotions themselves, I loved every part of this dear book.
I always knew there was so much to learn from Louisa May Alcott’s beautiful book, but this devotional made me learn even more from it.
I love how each day’s devotion is based on one chapter from the book. The verses that go along with each chapter perfectly fit the theme of the chapter it goes with.
They’re the perfect length. Not too long nor too short.
Again I must say, the illustrations were so beautiful and charming. I loved looking at every one. They fit the cozy aesthetic perfectly!

I so enjoyed reading this devotional on chilly autumn mornings. Accompanying it with my Bible reading has been the perfect start to my mornings. It would also be a great evening devotional to read by the fire. ❤️

*Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the book Little Women as a child and have read it several times. I think my childhood copy may still be hiding in my attic somewhere. When I saw this devotional based on that beloved book, I knew I wanted to own it.

In my opinion, this book is absolutely exquisite! Each devotion is based on a section or chapter of Little Women and it's not just a quick 30 second devotional. It's meaty and rich, with the devotional, a personal application, several scriptures that pertain to that devotional and a wonderful, very appropriate prayer to guide you along. I have been blessed so much reading this! I can very highly recommend it. Rachel Dodge is wonderful here.

My thanks to Barbour Publishing for a copy of this book via Net Galley. I was not required to leave a review and the opinion here is entirely my own.

[The Film Director's Wife · Rating 4 out of 5]

This devotional is absolutely beautiful and would pair nicely with a copy of the Little Women book for a young lady in your life!

I liked how each individual devotion focused on a specific chapter from Little Women and encourages the reader to see how the Lord sees them as His cherished daughter.

The artwork is gorgeous and I found it to have solid life application. I definitely recommend!

***Thank you to the publisher, author, and Netgalley for the digital ARC of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.***

[Erin Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely lovely and the perfect companion to Little Women. In fact, I’ll say that this is a MUST HAVE to read alongside the book! Each devotional was poignant and rich, while still being short and digestible. Rachel Dodge did an impeccable job of bringing out the Biblical truth buried within this classic and I look forward to reading another of her devotional books!

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

How many of you consider Little Women as one of the most beloved books of all time? I certainly do and now, there is a wonderful companion to Louisa May Alcott's masterpiece. Author Rachel Dodge offers readers The Little Women Devotional, and it is absolutely beautiful! There are 47 devotions and I was immediately transported back to the first time that I read Little Women. Each devotion has a snippet from the book, and these scenes are followed by an inspiring devotion, a suggestion for applying it to our own life, and an appropriate prayer. Best of all, each devotion has a colorful illustration that is reminiscent of the original Little Women.

As I read these devotionals, I was reminded of the wisdom and inspiration that was included in Little Women, but I now have a greater appreciation for Marmee, Mr. March, and the four March sisters. It's very apparent that Dodge treasured them also, and she's penned a memorable tribute! The Little Women Devotional is absolutely lovely, and it's now been added to my shelf of favorite devotionals. It reminds me of my youth, it encourages me to return to the values of a simpler and gentler time, and it inspires a closer walk with God. Reading it is an emotional trip down memory lane, and I look forward to sharing this book with my family and friends!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and Barbour Publishing, but I also purchased another copy. I was under no obligation to post a review. These are my own thoughts.

[Amanda Murphy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was given aa ARC of this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I'm not one of those girls that loves Little Women. I used to want to be, but I'm not. That said, I probably don't get as much out of this book as a diehard Little Women lover would. But I'm impressed. Each chapter includes a quote and synopsis of an event in the book, followed by a scripture, discussion for personal application, and a prayer. I could see some homeschool families getting some really good use out of it.

[Ancillar · Rating 3 out of 5]

OH mayn, raise your hand if you love the March sisters *raises two hands* . I absolutely love them so this devotional was a dream come true.

As far as devotional goes this one was jam-packed and kept me engaged throughout. Each chapter includes a quote and an event highlight from the original Little Women story , followed by a scripture, discussion for personal application, and a prayer. Such a delightful devotional perfect for fans of the March sisters and one that will ensure you keep your morning devotions

[Ivonne Rovira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who is the audience for this book? The Alcotts were famously Transcendentalists. White Evangelicals, especially in this day and age, worship the Golden Trump; they would not look to the spiritual ancestors of Unitarians for guidance now or ever. Nor would they be receptive to the message in this devotional of caring for the least and the last instead of caring about wedge-issue Republican politics. Young girls? While I read Little Women as a girl, I can’t imagine turning to a devotional when I was 12 or 13.

I was not surprised to find that author, Rachel Dodge, also wrote The Anne of Green Gables Devotional: A Chapter-by-Chapter Companion for Kindred Spirits. No children’s heroine is more beloved than Anne Shirley. Are there women as devoted to Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy as there are to Anne? Perhaps there are, but I have never heard of women as enthralled with Little Women as with Anne of Green Gables.

All of which is unfortunate because The Little Women Devotional is beautiful in every respect: beautifully illustrated, beautifully written, full of beautiful scripture and references from the novel, beautiful in its reliance on Christ’s command to look out for the least of these. I was expecting something cheesy; instead, it was awe-inspiring. Highly recommended.

In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was trying to think what I wanted to read for my 100th book and since I received this devotional last Christmas, I figured I should finish it before this Christmas. I really enjoyed it. Each chapter of Little Women has a devotional so it follows the book. I had thought about reading Little Women chapter by chapter with the devotional, but they do a good summary of each chapter before using scripture to tell you want to learn from each chapter so I decided not to. There are 47 devotionals and each day they give a summary of the chapter along with a few bible verses and then a personal application and a prayer to go with the meaning of the chapter. So yes I could have finished it in 47 days :) I do not have many quotes because I would just be quoting the whole book but I have a shirt that says "Hope and Keep Busy" from Little Women and that was mentioned in the book. And then:"Though it is small, the tongue can do a lot of damage or a lot of good." Truth.

[Daisy F. Dronen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Little Women Devotional: A Chapter-by-Chapter Companion to Louisa May Alcott’s Beloved Classic

“Now, my little pilgrims, suppose you begin again, not in play, but in earnest, and see how far on you can get before Father comes home.” MARMEE MARCH

This chapter by chapter companion truly spurred me to begin again as Marmee invites her girls to do. To begin again in a more gentle and slow way for all things. In parenting, to extend grace more earnestly when I just want compliance. In life, to wait with patience when I just want things to get done. In relationships, to wade deeper into uncertain pools as we love each other when I just want comfort and ease.
The sweet illustrations added a whimsical feel and helped me imagine myself in the scene. I loved showing the pictures to the kiddos and they made sure I didn’t forget.I hope you pick up this beautiful devotional and share one with a friend or daughter it will bless you immensely. This devotional will strengthen your faith and will also help you navigate suffering, and even discontentment with a right view of yourself and God.

You can also check out how it spurred me on in Motherhood here: https://daisydronen.food.blog/2022/03...

[Stephanie’s Ninth Suitcase]

This book was truly a delight, one that brought tears to my eyes at the beginning and end.

I really enjoyed Dodge’s foreword, which I felt captured both the coziness of the novel and the importance of faith (which, again, is usually overlooked), within the plotline.

My favorite parts of the devotionals were the beginning sections, which paraphrased portions of the text, with generous quotations from Alcott. In this section, Dodge also draws out a faith theme. While some of these are from the more “obviously Christian” portions of the text (such as the girls reading their new Bibles on Christmas), others reflect on a lesson a character learns (such as when Amy practices meekness at the bazaar).

Dodge has a real talent for capturing the warmth (and not just the storyline) of the novel in her retellings. While some of the devotional messages felt a bit “standard,” I really appreciate the opportunity to learn these lessons through the eyes of a character. I also found that some of the devotions were particularly beautiful and insightful. I won’t give away the spoiler, but I was utterly delighted with Dodge’s treatment of Bhaer’s proposal to Jo. This is also the most sympathetic I’ve ever been toward Amy, who I have never really liked (but also, as the youngest, related to). The devotional really shifted my perspective!

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The picture on the cover tells it all! You will love this devotional. If you grew up with Louisa Mae Alcott, you will enjoy the insights and thoughts in this devotional as well as the artwork throughout this book.
Each chapter of the book has its own little devotional with a applicable scripture that fits the story in the book and an application that you can use in your personal life. There is also a prayer included. The devotionals combine together so well with the actual book and are simply delightful and heartwarming.

It's very uplifting and we can all use that!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

[ASC Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS BOOK! The one and only thing that would have made it better to me was if all of the Scriptures where in the King James Version, but it was an easy fix to just read from my own Bible. I must make a confession, Little Women has never been one of my favorites, I know I know there are millions booing me right now. But that should speak even more highly of Rachel's devotional to go along with it, because even I LOVED it! And I actually have a new appreciation for Little Women now to. So how's that for a recommendation, "Even those that don't particularly like Little Women will LOVE this book!" ;)

[Lila Diller · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very basic, easy-to-read, and easy-to-understand summary of the best parts of Little Women – and some of the chapters that didn't seem to be necessary to the main story. I have misplaced my copy of Little Women, and so I wasn't able to read along like I wanted. But from the devotional, there is no one protagonist. It's all the March girls. Which makes it hard for me to relate deeply to any one of them. The devotional had to take a few stretches to make a lesson out of each chapter. There were some really good nuggets, but overall, it wasn't very applicable to me, and I will not read it again. Though, to be fair, I'm getting to the point where no devotional is deep enough or applicable enough to me. So that is probably not the author's fault.

Favorite quotes:
“When God told Moses to build the tabernacle, He chose Bezalel to lead the team of craftsmen … (Exodus 31:3-5, ESV). But how did Bazalel become a master craftsman? He most likely honed his remarkable skills while in captivity in Egypt. After years of serving Pharaoh, Bezalel got the chance to use his gifts to serve God in a big way!” (p. 72)

“Simply put, our sin nature doesn't take days off; thus, we can never afford a spiritual vacation.” (p. 86)

“We often think that perfection is the main objective, but it's what happens during our climb that matters most. There's growth that happens while we're faltering, slipping, and sliding that can't be manufactured in any other way.” (p. 124)

“You can help make life happier for others in many creative ways. Ask God to show you how to 'let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven' (Matthew 5:16 NKJV).” (p. 184)

“Marmee tells Jo, 'You have had the bitter, now comes the sweet.' When we're in the midst of the bitter parts of life, it's hard to see God at work... However, some of the hardest times are followed by tender times of sweet renewal. Though it takes time, God does bring us back to life after a period of great loss... and leads us into seasons of usefulness and creativity.” (p. 193)

“Amy learned to give generously as a young girl when she had little to give, and it became a part of who she is. You too can create a habit of giving and make it a part of your lifestyle.” (p. 202)

“A lot of life is spent waiting, but what you do while you wait matters.”(p. 220)

(I received a copy for free from the publisher. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own, as was the decision to write this review.)

[E.F. Buckles · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I hadn't been previously familiar with this author, I heard of this devotional sometime earlier this year and decided to give it a try. It was delightful. The author does an excellent job taking the themes found in the classic novel, Little Women, and connecting them with scripture. Each daily devotional is thoughtful and deep and I found many things that were relevant to me. As usual, God even used certain ones to speak directly to me and guide and encourage me in things that were happening in my life. I fully recommend this for Christians who love classic literature.


While not written for a specific age range, I believe this devotional is plenty appropriate and readable by older children (Middle shool age and up), teens, and adults. As long as the person is old enough to read and appreciate the original Little Women novel, they're old enough to read and appreciate this devotional.

[Sheila Samuelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
Thank you to Barbour Publishing for sending me this FREE Copy to promote and review for them as part of their Review Crew last year.
Little Women has always been my favorite Classic Novel so when I saw this one I was excited to read for 46 days as a Devotional.

Each Day has a small story from the book with a Bible story attached along with Verses, Lesson and Prayer.

Alot of the lessons I could relate to especially when it talked about Grief.

If you Love Little Women and want a read along with the Classic Novel I definitely recommend this one.

[Leslie McKee · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you're a fan of Little Women, as well as devotional books, this is likely something you would enjoy. Each chapter includes a quote/scene from the story, and it's followed by a Bible verse, personal application section, and a prayer. It's interesting to see the life lessons learned through this classic story. The book's small size makes it nice and portable, and the readings are short enough to fit into a busy schedule.

[Alley W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Little Women Devotional is a book that pairs nicely with the book Little Women. For every day there is a scripture that coincides with a passage from the book. The scripture illuminates what the theme is for the day. After there is a section for personal application and a prayer. The illustrations in this book also add to the book and make it a special read.

[Michelle Rhoden · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading the book Little Women. How wonderful to see the actual book incorporated into a devotional complete with quotes from the book and thought provoking examples. I recommend this book for someone who needs a pick me up in the morning before their day gets started or needs a way to unwind from their day to help fall asleep.

I was given a copy of this book for my honest opinion and review from Netgalley and the Publisher.

[Faith · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author included devotional pus the little women story (one of my favorite books when I was a kid). The illustrations are great as well. This would be an excellent book for any fans of little women who need daily scripture inspiration.

I want to thank the publisher for giving me an arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Katie Mae · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Little Women Devotional is a delightful companion to the classic novel. Sweet threads of faith, family, and friendship are beautifully woven through the pages of Rachel Dodge’s newest devotional.

I have long loved the story of Little Women, the book, the movie, quotes, basically, all of it. So a devotional that slowly takes you through the book chapter by chapter was an instant yes.

The beautiful illustrations bring the book to life. A simple excerpt, a short devotion, a verse to ponder, and a prayer prompt make up each of the chapter by chapter devotions.

If you have read The Anne of Green Gables Devotional and Praying with Jane you are sure to love The Little Women Devotional.

The warmth of the story line is perfectly captured and draws you in like a warm hug. All the sense of love, coziness, and belonging come over me whenever I read the novel. This was perfectly captured in the this devotional.

It is sure to be one I gift to friends and family.

Thank you to the publisher, author, and Netgalley for the free digital edition of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.

[Katherine Bartlett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have already read the Anne of Green Gables devotional from this author and her Little Women devotional is not to be missed. It goes along with each chapter in the book and is perfect for any fan.

[Candy · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Little Women Devotional" by Rachel Dodge is a beautiful book. Chapter by chapter, it pulls spiritual insights from Louisa May Alcott’s "Little Women". It combines them with scripture, personal application, and prayer. I loved the illustrations and found them whimsical and charming.

There is so much to glean from this devotional. From helping a neighbor or the less fortunate to Jo’s struggle with her anger. The need for encouragement to fighting the good fight.

For example, on Day 8 we read how Jo struggles with her anger after Amy does something terrible to her

I also thought it would be fun to read a chapter a day from "Little Women" simultaneously! I did not get a chance to do this because I was doing another study, and my time was limited. But I had a strong urge to do just that!

I have always loved reading devotionals that combine literature and scripture! If you are fond of Little Women, you will absolutely adore "The Little Women Devotional"!

FTC Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for my honest review.

[Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Little Women has been my favorite book ever since I was a young girl, and I couldn't wait to dive into this devotional. Reading it brought to mind all of the reasons why I loved the novel so much in the first place, and it definitely brought both smiles to my face and tears to my eyes as each chapter of the book was used to highlight the importance of having faith in Jesus no matter what circumstances we're currently finding ourselves in.

I loved the way this one is written as a direct chapter by chapter companion to the novel, and the way that Rachel Dodge uses each event happening to Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy as an opportunity for the reader to grow their relationship with the Lord. Each day's devotion was the perfect length to give you something to think about, but also was able to be finished fairly quick and didn't require a huge time commitment. Each chapter features a a quick synopsis of the corresponding chapter in the book, a guided reflection on what faith would mean in that situation, and a prayer to close out with.

This book made me appreciate Louisa May Alcott's beloved classic novel even more, and is by far one of the best devotional books I've ever personally read. I can't possibly recommend it enough, and I can't wait to pick up another devotional book by this author in the very near future.

Final Rating: 5/5.



Thanks so much to Barbour Publishing for allowing me to advance read and review this one!

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Barbour) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Simone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Netgalley and the author/publisher, for the opportunity to read and review an advanced reader's copy of this book. This in no way affects my review, all opinions are my own.

What a cute book!!!! This was such a cute take on a devotional. I loved the format, the messages, the illustrations! This is a wonderful devotional to work through while at the same time reading the respective chapters in the novel. It really makes you stop, reflect, and see the deeper meaning chapters in novels can have when we take the time to ponder on them!

[Kathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did not use this as a daily devotional (not a fan of them) but rather read it straight through, having recently reread Little Women (in preparation for this book, actually). I found the illustrations (same as those in the the Anne devotional) to be cartoonish and thought they took away from the ageless/classic feel of the book. But the layout and content is spot on. Applicable to older youths or adults. Excellent daily devotional for someone who likes to use those and a “must” for fans of Little Women.