These new editions of Alcott's classics are more attractive on the outside than on the inside: lovely covers, including illustrations by Jane Dyer, do not lead the reader to expect the lack of internal illustrations, the poor paper quality, and the less-than-generous margins. 'Little Women' features an introduction by journalist Anna Quindlen. From HORN BOOK 1994, (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Gr 5 Up-Louisa May Alcott's charming, although now somewhat dated, companion piece to the perennially popular Little Women highlights the life of the wildest of the March sisters, Jo, now married to "her professor," and presiding as the harried but happy mistress over the Plumfield Estate School-home to a small group of needy boys, relatives, and sons whose mischievous antics and emotional upheavals provide ample opportunities for Alcott to share her personal philosophy about learning and life. Filled with pathos and humor as well as insights into the mysterious world of childhood, Little Men entertains and educates in equal measure. Justine Eyre's narration slowly lulls listeners back in time to a far gentler and kinder world in which all children are cherished and nurtured to become their very best selves, providing a perfect selection for family listening pleasure. Also included is a PDF ebook featuring autiomatic startup, a table of contents, and keyword search.-Cindy Lombardo, Cleveland Public Library, OH (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.