Hooper is a writer to watch!”-Elisabeth Egan, author of A Window Opens To read this book is to understand why the women behind Little Women continue to cast a long shadow on our imaginations and dreams. “Elise Hooper’s thoroughly modern debut gives a fresh take on one of literature’s most beloved families. From Boston to Rome, London, and Paris, this brave, talented, and determined woman forges an amazing life of her own, making her so much more than merely “The Other Alcott.” So May embarks on a quest to discover her own true identity, as an artist and a woman. Everyone agrees the novel is charming, but May is struck to the core by the portrayal of selfish, spoiled “Amy March.” Is this what her beloved sister really thinks of her? Life for the Alcott family has never been easy, so when Louisa’s Little Women is published, its success eases the financial burdens they’d faced for so many years.

While her sister Louisa crafts stories, May herself is a talented and dedicated artist, taking lessons in Boston, turning down a marriage proposal from a well-off suitor, and facing scorn for entering what is very much a man’s profession. Stylish, outgoing, creative, May Alcott grows up longing to experience the wide world beyond Concord, Massachusetts. Now, it’s time to learn the truth about the real “Amy”, Louisa’s sister, May. But while everyone cheers on Jo March, based on Louisa herself, Amy March is often the least favorite sister. We all know the story of the March sisters, heroines of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women. “ adventures illuminate the world of intrepid female artists in the late 1800s The Other Alcott comes alive in its development of the relationship between Louisa and May.” -The New York TimesĮlise Hooper’s debut novel conjures the fascinating, untold story of May Alcott-Louisa’s youngest sister and an artist in her own right.

The Other Alcott by Elise Hooper