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Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott
When Louisa May Alcott's Little Women was published in 1868 it was an instant success. Louisa drew on her experiences in writing the novel, but there's a lot more to her rags-to-riches story. Louisa came from a family that was poor but freethinking, and she started teaching when she was only seventeen years old. But writing was her passion. This informative biography captures the life of a compassionate woman who left an indelible mark on literature for all ages.
48 pages, Hardcover
First published August 18, 2009
1 person is currently reading
335 people want to read
About the author
Yona Zeldis McDonough
53 books234 followersI live in Park Slope, Brooklyn and many of my novels take place here. But my new novel takes place in New Hampshire, and I have woven into it a historical component: the tragic story of Ruth Blay, who in 1768 was the last woman hanged in the state. When I read about Ruth, I was fascinated and horrified in equal measure, and I knew I had to write about her.
I was educated at Vassar College and Columbia University, where I studied art history. But I started writing fiction in my 20's and never looked back. I am the author of seven novels, 27 books for children and am the editor of two essay collections. I'm also the fiction editor of Lilith Magazine . Please visit my website, http://www.yonazeldismcdonough.com or find me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/yzmcdonough; I love to connect with readers everywhere.
I was educated at Vassar College and Columbia University, where I studied art history. But I started writing fiction in my 20's and never looked back. I am the author of seven novels, 27 books for children and am the editor of two essay collections. I'm also the fiction editor of Lilith Magazine . Please visit my website, http://www.yonazeldismcdonough.com or find me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/yzmcdonough; I love to connect with readers everywhere.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
November 23, 2018
Fantastic telling of a beloved author Louisa May Alcott. She had unusual parents who were far beyond their time. Her dad was very compassionate. Her life is similar to Little women in some ways. You can see pieces taken right from her life.
I love the artwork in this story. It is so beautiful and dreamlike. It seems perfect to me. It enhances the story.
Neither my niece or nephew have heard of Louisa or the stories she wrote, but they could get into this story. They enjoyed the artwork too. My niece does write and she could relate to the characters. They really don’t understand what the world use to be like for women at all - which is good. They both gave this 4 stars.
This is a great story about an author and her life lived.
I love the artwork in this story. It is so beautiful and dreamlike. It seems perfect to me. It enhances the story.
Neither my niece or nephew have heard of Louisa or the stories she wrote, but they could get into this story. They enjoyed the artwork too. My niece does write and she could relate to the characters. They really don’t understand what the world use to be like for women at all - which is good. They both gave this 4 stars.
This is a great story about an author and her life lived.
November 1, 2018
Now I am well aware that Yona Zeldis McDonough's Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott has obviously been conceptualised for and is geared towards younger readers (and indeed, if I consider this factoid, Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott is most definitely a detailed but still general enough introduction to Louisa May Alcott, to her life, her times, her family and of course also to her literary oeuvre, not perhaps all that suitable to and for very young children simply because of the rather text heavy nature of Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott but definitely for readers above the age of nine or so and perhaps even somewhat earlier if parents or teachers were reading this aloud). Accompanied by Bethanne Anderson's bright and lively illustrations (which for my own aesthetic tastes are a trifle too garish colour-wise, but at least Anderson's pictures seem to visually present the reality of 19th century America without annoying anachronisms) and graced by snippets of Louisa May Alcott's writings, a recipe, timeline and a short but adequate bibliography, I do warmly recommend Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott as an informative, readable and approachable junior biography.
However, and that all having been said, as an older and rather critical adult reader (who has perused many non fiction tomes in recent years not only about Louisa May Alcott but also about her father, Bronson Alcott), on an intellectual and academic (and indeed also on somewhat of a personal) level, while I have found Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott interesting (and as mentioned above, a good general introduction for younger readers), I am still absolutely annoyed and flabbergasted that like so many authors (both then and now) who have written junior biographies or biographical sketches on the Alcotts (and specifically on Louisa and her father), author Yona Zeldis Mcdonough has also frustratingly and sadly once again for the most part presented Bronson Alcott as in my opinion much too positively, focussing almost exclusively on his idealism and on his avant-garde teaching principles (and while McDonough at least points out that the Fruitlands experiment was a total failure, she has conveniently ignored how Bronson Alcott's Fruitlands partner Charles Lane banned not only meat but also most legumes, grains, in other words, it seems that most sources of protein were forbidden from being consumed at Fruitlands and how Lane actually almost convinced Bronson Alcott to abandon his wife and family, all information and details that I for one do consider as necessary in order to obtain a true portrait of Bronson Alcott and how his behaviour and his tendency to easily be manipulated by charismatic bullies such as Charles Lane almost destroyed his family, and this even in a biography on Louisa May Alcott geared towards older children and younger teenagers). And thus, while for the intended audience, I consider Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott as a decent enough and strong three star book, I have personally not enjoyed parts of Yona Zeldis Mcdonough's text all that much if at all, or rather, I have been annoyingly frustrated with and by the informational gaps regarding Bronson Alcott's shortcomings as a husband and father (that the author has in my opinion chosen to depict and portray him through very intensely rose coloured glasses) and that therefore, I can personally only consider two stars maximum for Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott.
However, and that all having been said, as an older and rather critical adult reader (who has perused many non fiction tomes in recent years not only about Louisa May Alcott but also about her father, Bronson Alcott), on an intellectual and academic (and indeed also on somewhat of a personal) level, while I have found Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott interesting (and as mentioned above, a good general introduction for younger readers), I am still absolutely annoyed and flabbergasted that like so many authors (both then and now) who have written junior biographies or biographical sketches on the Alcotts (and specifically on Louisa and her father), author Yona Zeldis Mcdonough has also frustratingly and sadly once again for the most part presented Bronson Alcott as in my opinion much too positively, focussing almost exclusively on his idealism and on his avant-garde teaching principles (and while McDonough at least points out that the Fruitlands experiment was a total failure, she has conveniently ignored how Bronson Alcott's Fruitlands partner Charles Lane banned not only meat but also most legumes, grains, in other words, it seems that most sources of protein were forbidden from being consumed at Fruitlands and how Lane actually almost convinced Bronson Alcott to abandon his wife and family, all information and details that I for one do consider as necessary in order to obtain a true portrait of Bronson Alcott and how his behaviour and his tendency to easily be manipulated by charismatic bullies such as Charles Lane almost destroyed his family, and this even in a biography on Louisa May Alcott geared towards older children and younger teenagers). And thus, while for the intended audience, I consider Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott as a decent enough and strong three star book, I have personally not enjoyed parts of Yona Zeldis Mcdonough's text all that much if at all, or rather, I have been annoyingly frustrated with and by the informational gaps regarding Bronson Alcott's shortcomings as a husband and father (that the author has in my opinion chosen to depict and portray him through very intensely rose coloured glasses) and that therefore, I can personally only consider two stars maximum for Louisa: The Life of Louisa May Alcott.
December 13, 2017
This is a very thorough biography of Louisa May Alcott. It not only covers her writing career but also her social activism and her time as a Civil War nurse. It's a cradle to grave biography for those readers old enough to read Louisa's books-I'd say 10+ because of the length. If a biography isn't enough, in the back you have "The World According to Louisa May Alcott," a compilation of quotes about various topics such as her childhood, nature, work, etc. Two poems by Louisa May Alcott, interesting facts about LMA, her writing and her family, important dates, a bibliography and her recipe for Apple Slump are also included. I've made Apple Slump several times and it's a huge hit with my family. This is a simple recipe Louisa's younger fans can make.
The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous! Bright and rich in color and detail, they evoke the time period while being more of a fantasy. My artist sister-in-law loves the picture of Louisa lying against a very large dog. I can not gush enough about these illustrations. They make this book a real stand out.
I hope my nieces will read at least some of this before we go to Concord later this month.
The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous! Bright and rich in color and detail, they evoke the time period while being more of a fantasy. My artist sister-in-law loves the picture of Louisa lying against a very large dog. I can not gush enough about these illustrations. They make this book a real stand out.
I hope my nieces will read at least some of this before we go to Concord later this month.
January 8, 2012
In 5th grade Louisa May Alcott was probably my favorite author. I read every book of hers that I could get my hands on. So it was fun as an adult to go back and read this biographical picture book about her written for 3rd to 5th grade. I found the whole book fascinating. Some of the historical information of the time might be lost on children but would bring up some interesting discussion questions. Fans of Louisa May Alcott will love this picture book.
January 7, 2020
A picture-book biography of Louisa May Alcott, author of the beloved childhood classic,
Little Women
, this slim little book offers a brief outline of its subject's life, from her birth in 1832 to her death in 1888. Alcott's early years, when her father's struggle to remain true to his ideals involved the family in many hardships, are covered, as are: her brief time as a Civil War nurse, her growing success as an author, her role in supporting her various relations in later years, and her far-too-early death at the age of fifty-five.
McDonough's narrative flows smoothly, as she weaves the basic facts of Alcott's life into an engaging story for younger readers. Bethanne Andersen's accompanying gouache and pastel illustrations give life to the story, emphasizing the emotions of each scene, whether it be the sorrow found at the bedside of a wounded Civil War soldier, or Alcott's excited joy at presenting her first printed book to her mother. Recommended to younger readers looking for a basic outline of Alcott's life.
McDonough's narrative flows smoothly, as she weaves the basic facts of Alcott's life into an engaging story for younger readers. Bethanne Andersen's accompanying gouache and pastel illustrations give life to the story, emphasizing the emotions of each scene, whether it be the sorrow found at the bedside of a wounded Civil War soldier, or Alcott's excited joy at presenting her first printed book to her mother. Recommended to younger readers looking for a basic outline of Alcott's life.
December 6, 2010
This book is not a standard biography. If you are looking for a graphed out biography of Alcott's life, you haven't found it in this book. What you have found is a beautifully illustrated, nicely sculpted story of Alcott's life. Each of the pages tell a new tale of Alcott's life growing up. Each of the stories is true, and each sort of gives hints as to how Alcott became the woman behind Little Women . Tragedies and triumphs in her life are glossed over, and the book focuses on her girlhood. It sort of reminded me of a true American Girl Novel of sorts. This books would be a good read for you child to prepare them before they read little women, but is not an educational biography. That said, I really enjoyed it. The features at the end are not standard, either, and include a recipe for Alcott's favorite dessert. Ages 4-10. The biggest downside, then, is that the book would be best enjoyed by kids that are too young to get through Alcott's more famous works.
September 13, 2013
Add this to the list of compelling stories of women in history. The book is beautifully illustrated (check out Andersen's Patience Wright), but the vignette format of Louisa's life were attention grabbing for even my four year old daughter. Louisa is portrayed as a full well rounded, dynamic and multi-faceted person who was full of love and compassion others. My daughter is especially drawn to stories of that sort of person. We are very much looking forward to the time that we will read Little Women and Jo's Boys together.
The fifth star in my rating comes from the recipe for Apple Slump at the back which has become a mainstay in our family breakfast/dessert repertoire. It is like apple muffins meets cobbler. The soft texture of the topping is more pleasant than chewy cobbler and not gritty like crisp or crumble which is not knocking the others, but expands the options based on a person's mood and preference for texture at a given moment.
The fifth star in my rating comes from the recipe for Apple Slump at the back which has become a mainstay in our family breakfast/dessert repertoire. It is like apple muffins meets cobbler. The soft texture of the topping is more pleasant than chewy cobbler and not gritty like crisp or crumble which is not knocking the others, but expands the options based on a person's mood and preference for texture at a given moment.
July 22, 2010
A beautifully illustrated book that really explores the ups and downs of Alcott’s life. Her father was really ahead of his time in terms of social justice and education. And details such as the family’s strict vegetarianism and linen clothing were quite interesting. The pace is deliberate and I think this would most likely appeal more to girls. The lovely muted colors are in contrast with the childlike quality of the artwork, but the effect is quite moving. I especially love the illustration where Alcott gets lost and curls up with a dog. I think the tone of the book is just right and kids that love her work will love this book.
March 21, 2011
I love the folk art style of the paintings.
The biography is told as a story (ie beautifully written but no table of contents or index, which can be helpful to young "researchers"). I enjoyed learning more about her parents and the beliefs they passed on to Louisa.
Additions in the back include quotes, a bit of poetry, a timeline and bibliography, as well as a recipe from the time period.
I can't help but feel like this is one of those books that adults will love. But the picture book/middle grade crowd ... not sure if most of them will have any idea who Louisa May Alcott was or why she was important.
We'll see next year as it is on the Texas Bluebonnet list!
The biography is told as a story (ie beautifully written but no table of contents or index, which can be helpful to young "researchers"). I enjoyed learning more about her parents and the beliefs they passed on to Louisa.
Additions in the back include quotes, a bit of poetry, a timeline and bibliography, as well as a recipe from the time period.
I can't help but feel like this is one of those books that adults will love. But the picture book/middle grade crowd ... not sure if most of them will have any idea who Louisa May Alcott was or why she was important.
We'll see next year as it is on the Texas Bluebonnet list!
April 16, 2011
McDonough reveals the interesting life of Louisa May Alcott, an author with whom most children will be unfamiliar. Louisa's life, from her childhood rescue from drowning to her adult life as an abolitionist, is complemented by the richly colored illustrations by Bethanne Anderson. Accommodating areas in the illustrations allow for the text to be easily read. The biography is an excellent introduction to the author and McDonough adds a bit of Alcott's poetry, quotes, facts, a recipe, and a timeline at the conclusion to further acquaint the reader with Alcott's world.
May 3, 2011
SUPERB biography about the tragic life of author Louisa May Alcott. The interesting facts about her life (abolitionist, father's job choices, raising her niece) only heightened my adoration since girlhood of one of my favorite authors. I remember fondly visiting her home in Concord when I was an impressionable twelve years old. This is a must read for writing teachers to model biographical reading-compelling and unforgettable.
February 14, 2010
Good reviews.
I read it to 5th students as a read aloud with discussion about some aspects of story, ie: why her dad was considered strange for thinking chidren should be treated with respect. It was a good lesson and let into biographies well. Alcott books were checked out after lesson as well as biographies on other people.
I read it to 5th students as a read aloud with discussion about some aspects of story, ie: why her dad was considered strange for thinking chidren should be treated with respect. It was a good lesson and let into biographies well. Alcott books were checked out after lesson as well as biographies on other people.
October 11, 2011
Bluebonnet biography that I read with my 4th grader. I liked it a a lot. My 4th grader (a boy) did as well. He was most interested in the abolitionist views that the Alcott family supported. Very good illustrations and a window into Louisa's life without being too dry. I am now rereading "Little Women."
May 2, 2018
This picture book biography tells Louisa's life from childhood through her death, touching briefly on all aspects of her life in between. It is heavily illustrated with very nice gouache and pastel paintings. The text on each page is on a pale yellow-beige rectangle, somewhat like a sheet of paper. Very interesting and inspiring biography.
August 8, 2011
I have always loved Louisa May Alcott and this book was an excellent introduction to her childhood and life! Very well-done illustrations and lots of springboard for discussion about key events, attitudes, and perspectives that prevailed at that time and the power of individual belief.
November 15, 2011
I was brought to tears by this compact story of an amazing woman's life It is nice for young people to have access to a book with information that does not overwhelm them and also adds beautiful pictures
November 27, 2012
This was a good biography of a very cool lady. The book talks about her life from birth to death and focuses a great deal of her relationship with her family as well as her career. The ilustrations are beautiful. I would use this book to talk about the Civil War, biographies, or female authors.
July 3, 2016
I love the illustrations—they seem oversized, somehow—and bold and bright and so fitting. I love Louisa May Alcott, too, and I think she's one of my favorite historical figures. Made me want to watch all three versions of Little Women again immediately.
July 27, 2010
Nice, concise biography of Alcott with interesting, creative illustrations. This is a good example of biography for younger readers and is not overly burdened with too much information.
November 13, 2010
This biography of Louisa May Alcott is told so that my second graders rated it 4 stars! A first for a biography.
August 24, 2011
Very interesting! I like learning how famous people lived.
July 18, 2011
Beautiful illustrations.
August 7, 2011
This bluebonnet award book is excellent. Great short bio about a wonderful American author.
January 31, 2012
4.5 stars for this lovely biography. Probably my favorite of all the Bluebonnet picture books.
April 10, 2012
Uninteresting illustrations and overly simplified biography of LMA. There are better books obout her out there.
May 12, 2012
The illustrations are amazing and done by my friend of life, BethAnne. Don't miss the dedication. :)
July 25, 2012
Beautifully illustrated. A great picture book read aloud for secondary students for Women's History Month, Teen Read Week, and November 29 on Louisa May Alcott's birthday.
December 11, 2024
This picture book recounts the general sweep of Louisa May Alcott's life, from her early childhood to Fruitlands to her Civil War work to her writing to her death.
I enjoyed Bethanne Andersen's illustrations. The warm colors, fanciful patterns, and attention to nature capture much about Alcott's ethos. The end of the book contains quotations from Alcott about various aspects of life, two of her poems, a list of interesting facts, a recipe for apple slump, and a list of important dates.
The text is somewhat lacking. In listing the inspirations for the characters of Little Women, Anna/Meg is left out. The "Interesting Facts" section notes the Alcott's period as Grahamites, while on the opposite page giving a recipe for apple slump that includes butter and sugar! No explanation is offered for Alcott changing her eating habits as an adult. Rather than errors, little holes in the storytelling are what brought down the quality of the book for me.
Overall, I find this a good picture book biography of Alcott, though the text is somewhat lacking. If it invites young readers into Alcott's world, it has served its purpose.
I enjoyed Bethanne Andersen's illustrations. The warm colors, fanciful patterns, and attention to nature capture much about Alcott's ethos. The end of the book contains quotations from Alcott about various aspects of life, two of her poems, a list of interesting facts, a recipe for apple slump, and a list of important dates.
The text is somewhat lacking. In listing the inspirations for the characters of Little Women, Anna/Meg is left out. The "Interesting Facts" section notes the Alcott's period as Grahamites, while on the opposite page giving a recipe for apple slump that includes butter and sugar! No explanation is offered for Alcott changing her eating habits as an adult. Rather than errors, little holes in the storytelling are what brought down the quality of the book for me.
Overall, I find this a good picture book biography of Alcott, though the text is somewhat lacking. If it invites young readers into Alcott's world, it has served its purpose.
March 9, 2021
I know so little about Louisa May Alcott (besides my devotion to her written works) so this was a delightful insight into her life! I did not know how much of her own experiences flowed into Little Women. Her family seemed like honest, moral folk (but we could tell that by her books). Ralph Waldo Emerson was a family friend? Amazing! To wrap up, this is a fine introduction if you desire to acquaint yourself with the author.
July 28, 2022
Sweet book, enjoyable illustrations, and interesting information.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews