If you’ve read Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women, you no doubt remember Jo Marsh’s coddled, self-indulgent little sister, Amy, who trades away her artistic dreams for the promises of marriage. Little Woman in Blue is a refrain of Amy’s story, but with a twist: Author Jeannine Atkins calls Louisa’s character by her real name—Abigail “May” Alcott—and tells her story true.
Abigail “May” Alcott Nieriker (Image via WikiCommons)
In the 19th century, most female artists eventually exchanged their professional ambitions for marriage proposals, and then plowed their creative urges into homemaking tasks and raising children. But while May Alcott has a frothy side (which no doubt irks her older sister), she is a headstrong woman with loftier goals: Artist. Wife. Mother. Wealth and professional acclaim, when her every wish is granted. In lively passages, Jeannine Atkins describes the myriad obstacles that May encounters on this “road less traveled.”
Over time, May’s persistence begins to pay off. She earns the begrudging respect of her older sister, fattens her art portfolio, and is ultimately granted exhibition rights at the esteemed Salon in Paris, where her paintings are displayed alongside some of the most famous artists of her day. Her dreams of marriage and family are eventually realized, when she married Ernest Nieriker and gives birth to a baby girl. There’s more to the story, of course, but you’ll find no spoilers here.
May Alcott Nieriker’s ‘La Negresse,’ exhibited at the 1879 Paris Salon (Image via WikiCommons)
In this authentic, if fictionalized, biography, Jeannine Atkins breathes new life into one of America’s favorite literary classics. Alcott aficionados will find much to love between its covers, as will readers for whom this is a first introduction to the sisters in Little Women. Rich imagery. Relatable characters. Settings that are true to an era, and a story that celebrates May Alcott’s life, aptly published during the 175th anniversary of her birth year.
Within the first few pages, I became friends with “the little woman in blue.” I embraced her faults and virtues, railed against her torments, and celebrated her brave, if sometimes misguided, efforts to strike a balance between her artistic and personal ambitions. Though I was sorry to reach the end, I will remember May’s story, always.
Little Woman in Blue: A Novel of May Alcott (Cover image via Jeannine Atkins’ website)
This review is based on an Advance Review Copy (ARC) of Little Woman In Blue (SheWrites, September 2015), provided to me by the author. I was awestruck when I read one of Jeannine Atkins’ earlier books, Borrowed Names, and I’m a big fan of her subsequent works. Though we live on opposite coasts, our shared sensibilities have sparked an enduring friendship. Even so, I’ve done my level best to write an unbiased review of this book, in hopes that May Alcott’s story will reach—will touch—a broader audience of readers.
Very nice review, Melodye. Sounds like a wonderful book. I can see how it resonated with you!
May’s story is inspiring, which is just one of the reasons I was glad for the opportunity to read/review “Little Woman in Blue.” To stand in your own truth, measuring the pulsings of your own heart against the drumbeats of societal expectations… Such an passionate, indominable spirit!
I loved Little Women and all of Louisa May Alcott’s books as a kid. I’m glad to see a historical novel about the real Amy. My favorite character was Jo, but Amy is my younger daughter ‘s.
I adored Jo when I was younger, but then again, I didn’t know May in the way that I do now. Her story really resonates with me…
Wonderful review, Melodye! Like you I was awestruck by Borrowed Names, and continue to love, relish, and enjoy Jeannine’s work. Will add this link to my 8 Cool Things for the week. 🙂
Thanks! I’m glad for the opportunity to help spread the word about Little Woman in Blue, same as I once did (and still do) for Borrowed Names.
eight cool things on a tuesday | Jama's Alphabet Soup
[…] I’ve only just started to read it, but so far — wow! As one might expect from an author who’s also a poet, each sentence, each scene is beautifully crafted, informed by thorough research and illuminated by an indeniable passion for her subject. Friends who’ve finished the book have deemed it a must read. A rivalry between two talented sisters, and May’s internal struggle over the desire for artistic achievement as well as having a family of her own will make for a compelling read. Check out these excellent reviews by Kelly Ramsdell Fineman and Melodye Shore. […]
Loved seeing La Negresse in your post – no wonder the Paris Salon admitted it for showing – it’s spectacular! I really hope everyone I know (and then some) find this marvelous book.
It seemed fitting to include at least one of her paintings here. I love this one, and can easily see why it earned May the accolades it did.
I’ve always wanted to know more about Louisa May Alcott.
I’m enthralled with all of them & am happy to see so much renewed interest in the Alcott women. So fascinating, to see how May’s story unfolded, especially since Jeannine wrote her story from another POV altogether.
Little Woman in Blue: Publication Day! | Views from a Window Seat
[…] an admirable and risky choice, sometimes even today.” Thank you Melodye Shore for writing at A Joyful Noise: “Alcott aficionados will find much to love between its covers, as will readers for whom this is […]