So Many Beginnings: A Little Women Remix
#1 of 9 in Remixed Classics Series
on Goodreads (3,233)
What’s inside...
So Many Beginnings: A Little Women Remix by Bethany C. Morrow is a YA novel set during the American Civil War in North Carolina, 1863. It centers on the March family, particularly four young Black sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they experience life in the Freedpeople's Colony of Roanoke Island. The sisters confront various challenges including first love, health issues, and heartbreak, yet their strong familial bond provides support. The novel reimagines the classic Little Women, focusing on themes of race, resilience, and sisterhood, and has garnered praise for its critical perspective on historical narratives.
Character compass
Jo Freedman
Amy Freedman
Beth Freedman
Meg Freedman
Mammy Freedman
Discussion points
How do the March sisters each show their uniqueness in facing challenges?
What are some ways the characters support each other throughout the story?
How do you think the historical setting impacts the sisters’ dreams and choices?
Which sister do you relate to the most, and why?
What changes would you make in their situation if you were part of their family?
Tip: Role play these questions
Highlight the historical context before discussing, helping your child understand the era the characters are living in.
Compare and contrast the sisters’ characters and situations with contemporary scenarios to make it more relatable.
Encourage your child to express which character they feel most connected to and explore why.
Discuss the importance of family support depicted in the book and relate it to your own family values.
Use examples from the book to talk about resilience and overcoming obstacles, drawing parallels to real-life situations your child might face.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters overcome personal and societal challenges with determination, showing resilience as they pursue their dreams.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persevere through their own challenges, such as difficult school assignments or personal setbacks, by emulating the characters' resolve and resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of family support
Explanation: The strong familial bonds among the characters provide a support system that helps them navigate their individual paths.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate and lean on their own family for support during trying times or when making important decisions.
Example Lesson: Value of education
Explanation: The characters' pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement highlights the importance of education in achieving personal growth and empowerment.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to value and pursue their own education, viewing it as a tool for personal development and a way to open up future opportunities.
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity and inclusivity
Explanation: The story portrays characters from diverse backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and understanding of different cultural and social perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace and celebrate diversity in their communities, understanding the strength that lies in varied perspectives and backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Importance of personal independence
Explanation: Characters in the book strive for autonomy and self-sufficiency, showing that independence is crucial in shaping one’s destiny.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to strive for independence in tasks and decision-making, helping them grow into self-reliant individuals.