In this section, the March sisters step into a new phase of life, where challenges and opportunities shape their paths.

Through triumphs and trials, their sisterly bond remains unshaken, showing that life’s sweetest moments come from love and family.

It’s Beth’s quiet courage that brings the family to a crossroads. After caring for a sick baby in the Hummel household, she falls gravely ill with scarlet fever, and the March family rallies around her. Their love and unity are tested as they face the fear of losing their beloved Beth.

• Chapter 13: Castles in the Air

• Chapter 14: Secrets

• Chapter 15: A Telegram

• Chapter 16: Letters

• Chapter 17: Little Faithful

• Chapter 18: Dark Days

In Chapter 13, the March sisters and Laurie retreat to a picturesque meadow to share their “castles in the air”—the dreams that define their hopes and ambitions.

Meg dreams of a life of luxury, free from the hardships of poverty. Jo boldly declares her desire for independence and fame as a writer, defying societal expectations. Beth, ever the humble soul, longs for a quiet life surrounded by music and family.

And Amy, with her flair for drama, imagines herself a celebrated artist in a world of wealth and beauty. Even Laurie shares his secret dream, one filled with love and belonging.

The bond between the sisters and Laurie deepens as they support and encourage one another, their shared dreams drawing them closer while sowing seeds of the complexities to come.

This chapter captures the innocence of youthful aspirations and the joy of dreaming freely. It’s a tender, lighthearted moment that hints at the trials and triumphs that will test their hopes and strengthen their friendships.

ANGEL FOOD CAKE WITH BERRIES

“‘Wouldn’t it be fun if all the castles in the air which we make could come true, and we could live in them?’ said Jo.”

“Castles in the air” refers to the grand dreams and ambitions of the March sisters and Laurie. The phrase symbolizes the lofty, idealized visions of their futures—what they hope to achieve.

Here’s a light, airy dessert that echoes the whimsical, hopeful tone of the chapter. This light and fluffy dessert, paired with vibrant berries, captures the hopeful and airy spirit of the characters’ “castles in the air” dreams. Perfect for a social gathering.

The March household is full of whispers in Chapter 14 of Little Women. Everyone seems to have a secret—especially Jo.

Jo has been sneaking out, clutching something tightly to her chest. Where is she going? What is she hiding? Her sisters are determined to find out.

But Jo’s secret isn’t a scandal—it’s a triumph. She’s been selling her stories to a local newspaper, taking her first bold steps toward becoming a real writer.

When her secret is revealed, the family’s reactions are mixed—pride, surprise, and just a hint of worry. Jo’s ambition is growing, and so is her dream. With her first taste of independence, she begins to see the possibilities of what her future could hold.

Secrets bring excitement, ambition takes flight, and Jo proves that sometimes, taking a chance can change everything.

“GUESS THE SECRET” GAME

“‘Very well, then, come on. It’s a secret, and if I tell you, you must tell me yours.’ ‘I haven’t got any,’ began Jo, but stopped suddenly, remembering that she had.”

Here’s a fun game to try. Gather a group of friends (the more, the better!). Distribute slips of paper and pens to everyone. Have everyone write down a secret about themselves and then fold the slips of paper and place them into a container.

The object of this game is to guess which participant wrote each “secret” while fostering fun and laughter, inspired by Jo’s hidden ambition in Little Women.

The March family’s quiet routine is shattered in Chapter 15 of Little Women. A single telegram changes everything.

Marmee’s hands tremble as she reads the message: Mr. March is gravely ill and needs her by his side. The sisters’ world is thrown into chaos as they scramble to prepare her for the journey.

Jo steps forward with an unexpected gesture of love, offering up her greatest treasure to help fund Marmee’s trip. It’s a sacrifice that shocks everyone, revealing Jo’s deep selflessness.

With tears, farewells, and a flurry of emotions, the family prepares for Marmee’s departure. Left behind, the sisters must keep the household together, learning how much they need each another.

In this chapter, a moment of crisis brings heartbreak and courage. The March family proves that even in the face of fear, love can light the way forward.

A HANDWRITTEN TELEGRAM

“At the word ‘telegraph’, Mrs. March snatched it, read the two lines it contained, and dropped back into her chair as white as if the little paper had sent a bullet to her heart. Laurie dashed downstairs for water, while Meg and Hannah supported her, and Jo read aloud, in a frightened voice...”

We’re going to create vintage-style telegram replicas with meaningful or uplifting messages inspired by Little Women.

This craft is easy, fun, and perfect for fans of the March sisters or historical-themed projects. This craft combines creativity and thoughtfulness, echoing the heartfelt communication central to the March sisters’ story in Little Women. Enjoy crafting!

In Chapter 16 of Little Women, distance cannot weaken the bonds of family. As Marmee cares for Mr. March far from home, letters become the March family’s lifeline.

Jo writes with boldness, sharing her plans and determination to stay strong. Meg’s tender words offer comfort and hope. Amy’s letters are full of dramatic flourishes and dreams of elegance.

Beth, though quiet, writes from the heart, her simple words carrying deep love and a longing for Marmee’s return. Laurie adds his own lively touch, writing to amuse and cheer.

Even the housemaid Hannah, ever practical and nurturing, pens a letter full of updates and reassurances.

Each letter carries a piece of their love and lives, traveling across the miles to keep their family connected. In this chapter, words take the place of hugs, proving that even from afar, the power of love can heal and strengthen.

LITTLE WOMEN TRIVIA GAME

We’re going to play a trivia game based on the March sisters’ personalities, actions, and key moments in Little Women. We’ll focus on their qualities and relationships highlighted in Chapter 16, as well as the book as a whole. Here are some examples:

• Which sister sacrifices her hair to help the family?

• Who is the most musically talented March sister?

• Which sister dreams of being a writer?

• Who is described as vain but artistic?

• Which sister is the eldest in the March family?

• What hobby is Beth known for?

In Chapter 17 of Little Women, Beth’s gentle heart leads her to an act of kindness that will change everything.

The Hummels are in desperate need, their household stricken by illness. Beth, ever selfless, steps in to care for their sick baby, bringing comfort where it is needed most. Her quiet courage shines as she takes on the task, despite the risks.

But tragedy strikes when the baby succumbs to its illness in Beth’s arms. Her grief is deep, but she doesn’t regret helping those in need. It’s a moment that marks a turning point for her.

Unknowingly, Beth carries more than sorrow home with her—she’s exposed to scarlet fever, and Amy is forced to leave for Aunt March’s house. The shadow of what’s to come begins to fall over the family, setting the stage for challenges they never imagined.

In this chapter, selflessness and sacrifice take center stage, as Beth proves that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact.

HANDMADE RAG DOLLS

Rag dolls in the Victorian era were humble yet beloved toys, often handmade by mothers or children themselves. Crafted from scraps of fabric, they featured simple stitched faces and soft, stuffed bodies, making them perfect for cuddling.

These dolls reflected the resourcefulness of the time, as families with modest means relied on creativity rather than store-bought luxuries. Rag dolls became symbols of comfort, cherished not for their elegance but for the love poured into their creation.

These simple rag dolls are easy to make with basic materials, no sewing machine required. They can be customized with different fabrics and decorations to add a personal touch.

In Chapter 18 of Little Women, the March family faces their darkest hours as Beth’s illness deepens. The once lively home is quiet and tense, filled with whispered prayers and constant care.

While Jo stays vigilantly by Beth’s side, Amy is sent to Aunt March’s house to keep her safe from the fever.

Alone and anxious, Amy struggles with her fear and longing for home. Laurie, ever the loyal friend, steps in to lift her spirits.

Visiting often, he brings updates, reassurance, and his playful charm to ease her worries. Through moments of laughter and comfort, Laurie’s care for Amy begins to deepen their bond in unexpected ways.

Meanwhile, at home, the remaining sisters work tirelessly to keep everything going, clinging to hope as they face uncertainty. With every passing day, their strength and love are tested, but their unwavering devotion to one another shines brighter than ever.

In this chapter, friendship, courage, and resilience take center stage. As the family endures these dark days, their love proves that even in the deepest shadows, light can still be found.

HOMEMADE CHICKEN BROTH

During Victorian times, chicken broth was a staple remedy for the sick, much like in Little Women. Made by simmering chicken bones, meat, and simple vegetables like onions and carrots, it was believed to nourish and strengthen the ill. The broth was light, easy to digest, and often prepared fresh at home, reflecting the era’s reliance on natural, wholesome remedies. Its comforting warmth and rich flavor made it a symbol of care and healing, a small yet powerful gesture of love in times of illness.

A nourishing dish often used to comfort and heal the sick. This classic recipe is both wholesome and easy to prepare, making it a comforting choice for anyone in need of nourishment.