Aunt Jo's Scrap-Bag

Instead of Instagram-ing her grand tour of Europe, Louisa May Alcott wrote this collection of short stories inspired by it. Whilst not directly about 'Little Women' (boo) the stories switch from fiction to personal accounts, including how she created the characters of some of our favourite boys and girls. The Alcott speciality of teaching through story still features with lessons peppered throughout on love, obedience and trust. Whether you're a fan of Little Women or not, there is a story in here that will resonate with you. A charming collection of short stories by Louisa May Alcott, queen of morality, teaching and kindness.

Cupid and Chow-chow' is an adorable tale of a rosy, sweet boy named Cupid and his mischievous cousin Chow-Chow who he waits on hand and foot. As with much of Alcott's work, there is a subliminal social and moral discussion at play. At some levels it's a discussion on women's roles, the ongoing suffragette movement and the traditional role of femininity in society. It remains subtle however and does not overshadow the simply adorable tale presented to the reader. It represents excellent reading for readers of all ages, particularly those interested in the early feminist and suffragette movements.

What do you do as soon as you've seen Greta's 'Little Women'? Read the whole of Alcott's back catalogue, of course! This collection of short stories is a compulsory read. Although not as fiery as the Jo and Amy fiasco, or Jo and Teddy or Jo and...well, anyone really these girls are a colourful bunch. Exploring just what women and girls can do with just a little nudge, these have a classic Alcott feel. Funny, realistic and sometimes strongly moralistic, but always warm and beautifully written.

Jimmy's Cruise in the Pinafore' is another short story from famed American author Louisa May Alcott, that follows the young, kind hearted Jimmy through his difficult adolescence. The parallels between young Jimmy and Alcott in her own youth are profound, with twelve year old Jimmy having to work multiple menial jobs to make ends meet for his family and make up for his absent father. It is a tale celebrating the human spirit, its resilience in the face of overwhelming odds and the importance of family, with a healthy dose of adventure. Jimmy's beautiful spirit and unflinching soul makes this book a beautiful read full of valuable lessons for readers of all ages, as well as anyone who loved 'Oliver Twist'.

Whether your Thanksgiving is more sweatpants on the couch or turkey with all the trimmings, everyone loves a good tradition. From competitive yearly football matches (hello, Monica and Ross) to family arguments (again, hello, Monica and Ross) to repeating movies - or books. Louisa May Alcott's "An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving" is like a warming cup of cocoa for the soul. In this holiday treat we follow a family preparing for their own Thanksgiving. There is of course, drama, spirited arguments and narrowly missed arguments, but at the end of it all a spectacular turkey with all the trimmings is ready and waiting. A heartwarming treat to get you into the holiday spirit.

Three sisters go on a road trip through Europe, leaving behind the men in their lives as well as any social limitations and the female behaviour expected of them in the US. Semi-autobiographical in nature, the adventures of Amanda, Matilda and Lavinia are based on Alcott's travels with her own sister. The title of the novel comes from their shawl backpacks which is the only thing they bring with them on their trip. The tale is full of excellent dialogue, character reflection and beautiful description of the places they visit, while constantly drawing parallels between European and American life. This novel really drives home the very different lives women of the period lived, creating a compelling and fascinating book suitable for any reader.