What Jo Did Next - Rated 
From the days when they were 'Little Women', it was Jo who has been a central figure in the chronicles of March family. In 'Little Men' it is amazing to see how she has grown and matured in to a woman who resembles Mrs March. Just like Mrs March has been a pillar of strength and beacon of moralities in 'Little Women', here it is Jo, who shows the way to the unique boys.
It is interesting to note that while in 'Little Women' Mr March has been largely absent (which does not detract anything from the book), that in 'Little Men' we can see the different roles Mr Bhaer and Mrs Bhaer play in the nurturing of the boys.
While in this day and age already permeaed with psycho-analysis and various therapeutic and counselling sessions, this book shows what simple, solid and down-to-earth parenting is all about.
The new characters are all very interesting, and while Alcott may have won fame as her writings featuring female characters, 'Little Men' shows that she can do as well with male characters also.
Timeless Insights into Educating and Raising Children - Rated
If Little Men weren't an entertaining novel, it could serve as a timeless reminder of how adults can help children direct their energies in helpful ways and develop better habits. The philosophy is to provide lots of love, understanding, forgiveness, slack and carefully chosen incentives and guidance while encouraging friendships among youngsters who will balance one another out if they spend time together. You'll recognize lots of Marmee's loving approach in Jo's more rough and tumble perspective. It's a nice combination.
For those who loved the child-centered world of Little Women, you'll be entranced by what Jo does to educate and raise her own boys, her nephew and niece, a troublesome neighbor girl, male boarders and some unfortunate orphans.
Much of the novel focuses on the character development of two poor orphans, Nat and Dan, who find Jo's Plumfield (which she inherited near the end of Little Women) to be an unfamiliar paradise of a home and school that requires some adjusting to.
Although the title is Little Men, there's plenty of focus on Daisy, twin sister to Demi, Nan, an independent girl with lots of energy, and Bess, Amy and Laurie's daughter. There are pretend balls, teas, and dramatic performances that echo those in Little Women.
But the male slant that is subdued in Little Women bursts forth in Little Men as the book recounts pranks, brawls, collections of disgusting items, pillow fights, taming a colt and doing heavy chores.
Like Little Women, the chapters are really short stories involving the same characters as they progress from month to month.
If you haven't read Little Women, by all means start there. An important part of the fun of Little Men is finding out what happened next to Meg, Jo, Amy and Laurie.
Magic that only Louisa May Alcott can bring to life - Rated
I am a great fan of the whole series of: Little Women, Good Wives, Little Men and Jo's Boys. I first read the series when I was eight but even now at thirteen this series as magic that I have never found in any other book, and I have read a lot of Books. From jane Eyre to Mill on the Floss I have never been so moved by a book. I was brought to tears by this book it is a must have for any reader no matter what age. I know I shall love this book my whole life.
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