April 24, 2019
'Little Women 150: A Celebration' on Thursday, April 25
Celebrate the 150th anniversary of Louisa May Alcott's book, "Little Women," from 4-5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 25, at The Dusty Bookshelf.
The program will feature readings from "Little Women," brief critical perspectives on the novel and original poetry by current students. The event will conclude with a giveaway that includes copies of Alcott-related books and other prizes. Refreshments will be provided.
Anne Phillips, professor of English and children's literature, and Greg Eiselein, director of K-State First and professor of English and American literature and university distinguished teaching scholar, organized the event as a capstone to the yearlong anniversary of Alcott's novel and its lasting impact on readers.
"Other 19th century heroines cried, obeyed and waited passively for whatever life would bring to them," explained Phillips. "Alcott's March sisters performed their own plays, harbored artistic ambitions, wrote their own family newspaper, played, squabbled, expressed opinions and loved themselves and each other — and 'Little Women,' over 150 years, has accordingly inspired and influenced many later literary and cultural artifacts, from 'Anne of Green Gables' and 'The Penderwicks' to 'Sex and the City,' 'Girls' and much more."
Alcott's popular novel makes a perfect match for the celebration's venue, The Dusty Bookshelf, as the bookstore reopens to the Manhattan community following a fire in March 2017.
"We're absolutely thrilled to be a part of the Dusty Bookshelf's reopening this month. The place is a Manhattan landmark, dedicated to reading, good books, and community. We're excited about hosting our celebration there!" said Eiselein.
The event is free and open to the public. It is sponsored by the department of English in the College of Arts and Sciences, the Michael Donnelly Faculty Award in English and The Dusty Bookshelf.