I had collections as a child. Rock collections. Shell collections. A fine teddy bear collection.
I did not have a whole lot of books.
I have since made up for that oversight of childhood collections.
While I have had many books come and go from my selves over the years, there are a few that will remain for many years to come. All my years to come.
I started this little collection just after I graduated from University. With some help from friends and family it has grown.
One very dear to my heart, Rose in Bloom, was the possession of the children's Great Grandmother... on their fathers side. Her name written just inside.
It is hard to express just why I am so deeply attracted to the life and words of Louisa May Alcott. Her life itself, the time period, the challenges she faced, her wonderful ability to simply and honestly tell a story filled with characters that come to life on the page. Her humor and her determination. They all add up to a love of her. And her words. And her worlds.
While I was packing yesterday I came across this book first compiled and edited in 1889. I have not taken the time to read it cover to cover. Over the years just popping in, like I did yesterday, for tidbits like this...
"Read Charlotte Brontë's life. A very interesting, but sad one. So full of talent; and after working long, just as success, love, and happiness come, she dies.
Wonder if I shall ever be famous enough for people to care to read my story and struggles. I can't be a C.B., but I may do a little something yet."
~ Louisa May Alcott: Her Life, Letters and Journals
I kept it out of the boxes. This will be my travel reading. Inspiration.
Because I may do a little something yet.
~~
The kids love Louisa and Mr. Thoreau's Flute.
The sweet KC did an interview with me... if you would like to read and see a bit more about this simple girl and the things I love.
What a lovely collection. And I bet you may do a little something yet :)
ReplyDeleteWishing you a lovely weekend.
Thank you Kim!!
Deletebeautiful — and a gorgeous collection, too.
ReplyDeleteOh, I'd love to do a little something yet. I love that idea. And LMA. Devoured many of her books when I was a teen. Still own Little Women, a copy that was my mother's when she was young. Love old books with history, too.
ReplyDeleteYes. Indeed.
DeleteHow great to have your mother's copy! So special.
My daughter has to do a term paper on an American writer this spring, and she's chosen Louisa May Alcott. I think I'm as excited as she is! I'm looking forward to her learning about Alcott's family's notions about education--and how they may have connections to my her own experiences as a homeschooler.
ReplyDeleteI'm getting hints that you're already started on a little something...
Fun!
DeleteThat Life, Letters and Journals book would be a great resource for her. It was originally published the year after she died and just about as close as one may get to a primary source.
Yes... a few little somethings. ;-)
I bet those books smell amazing. I like that gave us close-up pictures. So close we can feel the texture of the cloth coverings. I can smell the old paper through my computer!
ReplyDelete:-) They do have a wonderful smell! I love old books.
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