The 2015 Classics Challenge set up by Stacey over at The Pretty Books. The goal is to read one classic a month and to blog about the experience. I've always wanted to read more classics and since I'm in a monthly classics book group, I thought this would be a great way to combine the two! This month, I've read Little Women by Louisa May Alcott.
WHEN I DISCOVERED THIS CLASSIC + WHY I CHOSE TO READ IT
I mean, who hasn't heard of Little Women? I've always seen reviews of the book or one of the movies, but was never really compelled to pick it up (it seemed too fluffy for me). However, when my mother told me that it was one of her favourite books while growing up, I knew I had to try it. Then I found a gorgeous orange penguin version and the deal was sealed.
WHAT MAKES IT A CLASSIC
I hate this question, because it's so hard to answer. I guess what makes it a classic is the time spirit in the novel and the fuzzy warm feelings it gives the readers. It doesn't matter how old you are, where you're from or what your life story is - this novel will make you feel amazing on the inside and I think that will make it a classic forever.
WHAT I THOUGHT OF THIS CLASSIC
I really liked this classic. I adored the four girls, I loved the story, the pacing was fast and I wasn't bored for a second. After reading Little Women I completely and totally understand why it is so well-loved. Even the little notes of moral, which irked me throughout The Scarlett Letter, didn't bother me at all in this book - it's kind of fun. It fits the time spirit and it's endearing to see little girls believe that everything can be fixed by faith and hard work. I love that that was true in this book - I can't imagine these girls not being happy. The reason I didn't completely adore it was that I'm not one for really happy books. I like some drama and this was just a little bit too perfect - however it's my favourite happy book.
WILL IT STAY A CLASSIC
As I mentioned before, yes. I think this is the ultimate feel-good book and people will never stop reading those kinds of books. There's no reason I can see for this to stop being a classic.
WHO I’D RECOMMEND IT TO
Saying everyone is too cliché, but that's kind of what I want to say. However, to specify, I'll say people who need a pick-me-up and people who are new with classics. This book is quite old, but it doesn't read like a Jane Eyre or Pride and Prejudice - it's easy, fast and will make you smile. If you are one of my YA readers, then do please try this book; it will surprise you so much.