Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was an American novelist and poet best known for her beloved classic Little Women. Born in Pennsylvania, she grew up in a family committed to education and social reform, and her experiences in a progressive household deeply influenced her writing. Alcott began her career as a writer in her teens, initially penning stories for magazines and working as a nurse during the Civil War. Her literary works, often reflecting her own experiences and social beliefs, include novels such as Little Men and Jo's Boys. Alcott's writing has endured for its rich character development and timeless themes of family, ambition, and personal growth.