Coming attractions – watch for a new novel on May Alcott coming out in September

Look what I got in the mail the other day: This is an advance copy of Elise Hooper's first book, The Other Alcott, published by Harper Collins in which she imagines May Alcott's life beginning in 1868. Elise gave a wonderful talk last summer at the Summer Conversational Series on May's life as an artist. …

“Poppy’s Pranks” reveals the childhood of Louisa May Alcott

I am listening for a second time to Harriet Reisen's fine biography, Louisa May Alcott The Woman Behind Little Women. In discussing Louisa's childhood Reisen makes many references to a story Louisa wrote for her first children's series, Morning-Glories and Other Stories. Having little experience with writing children's stories, Louisa opted to learn by doing, …

A trivia backstory: how is it that Catholic holy cards show up in Louisa’s stories?

While researching my biography on Elizabeth Alcott, I did a very careful re-read of Little Women using Daniel Shealy's excellent annotated edition. In the course of my reading I found many interesting little details. One of them involved the poem in Chapter 46 which brought Professor Bhaer to Jo's side. Called "In the Garret," a …

Pilgrimage to the heart(h) of Bronson Alcott

I am pleased to present this guest post by Helen Batchelder -- she had the privilege of visiting the birthplace of Bronson Alcott. You can still sign up to attend Helen's two lectures on Alcott at the Fruitlands Museum - call 978-456-3924, ext. 291. Cost is $12 for members, $20 for non-members. * * * …

Major acquisition by the Concord Library of Louisa May Alcott working manuscripts

Alcott scholar Joel Myerson announced today that the Concord Library has acquired rare working manuscripts of Louisa May Alcott, pointing to an article titled "Louisa May Alcott Manuscripts Go to Concord Free Public Library in Private Sale" by Jeanne Schinto. The deal was brokered by Marsha Malinowski Fine Books & Manuscripts of New York City. …

Louisa May Alcott Illuminated by The Message only $5 till Christmas

Looking for a great gift for a Louisa lover in your life? How about yourself? My publisher, ACTA, has reduced the price of my book, Louisa May Alcott Illuminated by The Message from $10.95 to only $5 up until Christmas! Here's a sample that you can read. Click here to order your copy. And a …

Happy Birthday Bronson and Louisa! Not a day over 217 and 184 ;-)

NOTE: I just found out my publisher, ACTA, is giving away 15 free copies of Louisa May Alcott Illuminated by The Message in honor of our favorite author's birthday. Go here http://actapublications.com/louisa-may-alcott-illuminated-by-the-message/ and type in code HAPPYBIRTHDAY at checkout. Even if you have your own copy, order one as a gift for friend! * * …

Hospitality still reigns at Orchard House (plus a big surprise announcement!)

The Christmas season has officially begun at Louisa May Alcott's Orchard House!  "A Country Christmas" begins this weekend, December 5th/6th and continues the following two weekends. Phone 978.369.4118 x106 for reservations. Last night the staff held an open house for members of Louisa May Alcott's Orchard House. This meant we could walk in the front …

The Annotated Little Women edited by John Matteson is a treasure

Just when you think there can't be anything more revealed about the Alcotts, something new and wonderful comes our way. A treasure chest This rich and gorgeous volume of Little Women is filled with treasures that delight any fan of the March family from the casual reader to the Alcott wonk (like me). John Matteson …

Life restored after a season of loss: “River of Grace: Creative Passages Through Difficult Times” in word and song

This past Wednesday was a BIG day. This arrived in the mail ... But that was not all. I also got the final mix of my soundtrack CD for River of Grace from the producer. And I have to say he really outdid himself. I sent him a text back with 7 hearts - one …