The March sisters are growing older, and life is beginning to change. Beth’s illness lingers, casting a quiet shadow over the household. Her fragile strength becomes a reminder of how precious their moments together are.

Amid the trials, a moment of joy brightens their dark days—Mr. March returns home at last. His arrival brings relief and happiness, a symbol of the family’s resilience after so many challenges.

Meanwhile, Meg takes a step closer to adulthood as John Brooke declares his love. His tender proposal awakens the bittersweet realization that their family will never be quite the same.

• Chapter 19: Amy’s Will

• Chapter 20: Confidential

• Chapter 21: Laurie Makes Mischief, and Jo Makes Peace

• Chapter 22: Pleasant Meadows

• Chapter 23: Aunt March Settles the Question

In Chapter 19 of Little Women, Amy faces a moment of quiet reflection that reveals her tender heart and growing maturity.

With Beth gravely ill and the shadow of scarlet fever looming, Amy begins to consider her own mortality. Sent to stay with Aunt March for her safety, she takes an unexpected step—writing her will.

Amy carefully lists her belongings, assigning each to her loved ones. A sketchbook for Laurie, her treasured turquoise ring for Jo, and heartfelt gifts for everyone she holds dear.

The act is solemn, but it’s also deeply touching. It shows Amy’s evolving understanding of love and sacrifice, even as her youthful flair for the dramatic shines through.

In this chapter, Amy’s “will” is more than just a document—it’s a window into her heart, proving that even in the face of fear, love and thoughtfulness prevail.

WRITE YOUR OWN WILL

“In her first effort at being very, very good, she decided to make her will, as Aunt March had done, so that if she did fall ill and die, her possessions might be justly and generously divided. It cost her a pang even to think of giving up the little treasures which in her eyes were as precious as the old lady’s jewels.”

This creative and reflective activity combines writing a personalized “will” inspired by Amy’s efforts and crafting a decorative scroll to display it. Perfect for all ages, it emphasizes thoughtfulness, sentimentality, and creativity. This fun activity allows for self-expression, creativity, and an opportunity to connect with others through meaningful gifts and memories.

In Chapter 20 of Little Women, Marmee’s return from Washington fills the March home with joy and comfort.

But with her arrival comes a heartfelt conversation about a new challenge—John Brooke’s love for Meg.

Jo, ever the fiercely independent sister, struggles with the idea of losing Meg to marriage. Her protective nature and fear of change leave her questioning how their family will ever feel the same.

Marmee, with her steady wisdom, reassures Jo. She speaks openly about Brooke’s kind and honorable intentions, helping Jo see that Meg’s happiness is what truly matters.

Through this quiet discussion, Jo begins to understand that love doesn’t take family apart—it brings new strength and connections.

The conversation leaves her with a deeper appreciation for Marmee’s insight and a new resolve to support Meg, even if it means facing her own fears about the future.

In this chapter, love, change, and family take the spotlight, as Marmee’s gentle guidance helps Jo navigate the growing pains of life and sisterhood.

TURQUOISE RING

“It is too soon yet for the young ladies to wear these things. The first one who is affianced will have the pearls, Madame has said it, and I have a fancy that the little turquoise ring will be given to you when you go, for Madame approves your good behavior and charming manners.”

We’re going to design a “turquoise ring” using beads and string. This project is a creative way to symbolize commitment to self-improvement, inspired by Amy’s turquoise ring in Little Women.

You’ll need turquoise-colored beads, elastic jewelry cord or thin wire, scissors, and small jewelry pliers (if using wire).

In Chapter 21 of Little Women, Laurie’s penchant for pranks takes a step too far, leaving the March household in an uproar.

When Laurie forges a letter to Meg, pretending it’s from John Brooke, his mischievous joke causes more trouble than he expects. Meg is mortified, Jo is furious, and Laurie quickly realizes his prank has gone too far.

Marmee’s gentle yet firm words remind Laurie of the importance of respect and honesty, leaving him humbled and eager to make things right. He vows that he’ll never bring it up to John.

Jo steps in to smooth things over, her straightforward nature helping Laurie understand the impact of his actions. With her guidance, peace is restored, and Laurie learns a valuable lesson about the weight of his playful antics.

In this chapter, mischief meets humility, as laughter and heartfelt apologies remind the March family—and Laurie—that friendship and respect are no joking matter.

SECRETS AND SURPRISES GAME

We’re going to play a game where you and your friends must try to guess whose secrets belong to each other. You’ll need small slips of paper or notecards, writing instruments, and a bowl.

Each person should write down a little-known or quirky fact about themselves. (It should be something true but not too obvious.)

Examples include: “I’ve read the same book five times" or “I can wiggle my ears” or “I’m scared of thunder.”

This game ties beautifully to the themes in this section, where secrets and confessions are shared. It’s engaging, thought-provoking, and creates a fun, bonding experience!

In Chapter 22, the March family finally sees their dark days give way to joy. The household is filled with warmth as Father returns home from the war, bringing the family back together at last.

The sisters are overjoyed, and even Mr. Brooke joins in the celebration. With Beth on the mend and laughter filling the house, their once somber home feels alive again.

Christmas brings an extra touch of magic as the family gathers for a long-awaited feast. Their table is filled with food, laughter, and gratitude for the blessings they’ve found after so much hardship.

Laurie adds his usual mischief and charm, and the sisters revel in the simple pleasures of home. These “pleasant meadows” of happiness are a well-deserved respite after their trials.

This chapter is a beautiful celebration of family, resilience, and the joy of togetherness. The Marches prove that even after life’s hardest trials, there is always room for hope and happiness.

SIMPLE GINGERBREAD CAKES

“There never was such a Christmas dinner as they had that day.”

In the spirit of Christmas dinner with the reunited March family, we’re going to make gingerbread cakes together.

Gingerbread cakes are a classic treat that reflect the modest yet comforting lifestyle of the March family. This vintage-style recipe is simple, flavorful, and evokes a nostalgic charm. Serve these gingerbread cakes warm with tea or a glass of milk. For an extra festive touch, dust them with powdered sugar or top with a dollop of whipped cream. These treats are perfect for sharing and embody the cozy, family-oriented spirit of Little Women.

In Chapter 23 of Little Women, Aunt March takes center stage, ready to make her opinions known—and she has plenty to say about Meg and John Brooke.

When she learns of John’s proposal, Aunt March storms into the March household, determined to talk Meg out of accepting. Her warnings about poverty and hardship are sharp and unwavering.

But Meg, ever gentle yet steadfast, surprises everyone. With quiet strength, she stands up to Aunt March, declaring her love for John and her belief in their future together. It’s a moment of courage that marks Meg’s step into adulthood.

Arriving at that moment, John finds Meg glowing with confidence. Aunt March’s disapproval can’t shake their love, and the couple’s bond only grows stronger in the face of her objections.

As the curtain closes on the first part of the Little Women story, love and determination shine through, proving that true happiness comes not from wealth, but from following your heart.

DRAWING A CARICATURE

“‘You can’t say nothing pleasant ever happens now, can you, Meg?’ said Amy, trying to decide how she would group the lovers in a sketch she was planning to make.”

In the spirit of Amy’s artistic abilities, we’re going to sketch a caricature of someone we know. Caricatures exaggerate certain features to emphasize personality traits in a humorous way. We’re going to walk through the process of creating such a sketch.

“Amy was drawing the lovers, who sat apart in a beautiful world of their own, the light of which touched their faces with a grace the little artist could not copy.”