This book provides in-depth critical discussions of Louisa May Alcott's novel plus complimentary, unlimited online access to the full content of this great literary reference. Little Women, a unique combination of romance, coming of age tale and family drama, paved the way for a new form of literature, and changed the conversation regarding a woman's journey from childhood to womenhood. This work surveys the critical conversation regarding Alcott's achievement from all standard critical perspectives -- social, gender, post-modern, psychological, and cultural. Each essay is 2,500 to 5,000 words in length, and all essays conclude with a list of "Works Cited," along with endnotes. Finally, the volume's appendixes offer a section of useful reference resources. - Publisher.