More Extra Discussion

My edition of the book didn't have any interesting questions in it, but I thought I'd take a couple from those we have listed in the left column.

How does the author's style contribute to (or detract from) the book?
Early on, we discussed how Louisa May Alcott wrote Little Women in the style of realism. I think that, overall, this was a benefit to the story. That style aided in making her characters more likable and, at least for me, made it easier to relate to them in their joys and trials.

I do think, however, that while her overall tone was in the style of realism, there was a definite rosy-hue to the story; everything always resolved very very nicely. Initially, when I read that final chapter where everything was amazingly, perfectly, and deliriously wonderful I thought that that was a little over exaggerated. But in rereading it, I've decided that it's not so far off. That was just a glimpse of one fabulous afternoon. Perhaps, while the day to day is often more gritty, I can think of days or occurrences in my life where things seemed just perfect. Plus, that seems a fitting end to our book.

What is the "moral" to the story?
I feel that this Ms. Alcott definitely had a theme to her book: be true to yourself, be true to those things you know to be good and true. And I don't think it's too crazy to say that the "moral" of the story is that one's life work should be to better oneself and those around you.

Are you going to change something because of the book?
Am I going to change something... Change might be too strong a word I think. I feel I like do pretty well with being focused on bettering myself (not that i'm perfect by any stretch of the imagination) and trying to become more like my Father in Heaven. I do think this book (while I may not agree with every thought portrayed, or theory presented) definitely has good examples and is a good touch of added support to that goal, and it helps me remember that it's good to have this goal. So, perhaps more than inspiring me to change something about myself, the book helps reinforce the choices I've already made.

I'm glad to have read it but, like Ritsumei, I am ready to move on.