The Quiet Little Woman: a Christmas Story Review for Christian Parents

Name: The Quiet Little Woman: a Christmas Story
Author: Louisa May Alcott

Concern LevelLow

Concerning & Potentially Concerning Content

While not “concerning”, we want to make sure potential readers know up front that this may not be what you expect when you see the title and author. This is not a long novel or a deep and complex story. It is a collection of three short stories, discovered much later, that the author had written to a small publication. The only real concerning comment comes in the 3rd and last story (one that is a bit out of place with the first two). Here a girl is shown in a dreaming type state. She has 1 hour to hear from animals and begins talking with a horse. In telling about his life, he tells of a very hard time when he is overworked. Another horse he is working with actually ‘drops dead’ and we hear the horse, in its sadness, say there were times she used to wish she would do the same.

VerdictRecommended

Our Thoughts

While the third story is fine, it is the first two stories that really shine. Both are incredibly kind and ‘good’ stories that we believe any parent would be happy to let their child read. There is a lot of focus on seeing the value in people, each of who is created in God’s image. We won’t spoil very much of the short content here, but both involve kindness to those in need and seeing people and situations in a different and better way. They also show laziness, lying and immorality in a negative light consistently. The first is set during Christmas and provides a nice option to bring out during preparation for this beautiful season. These stories will delight readers who enjoy titles from this “simpler time”. While we didn’t mark it as a Christian title, there are a few instances of content that shows our faith in a favorable light. One of the best comments comes in the first story, “but God knew and when the time came He remembered Patty and sent her the help she so desperately needed. Sometimes when we least expect it a small cross proves a lovely crown”. After she receives an incredible blessing we hear that she strives to say her prayers, but can’t find words beautiful enough to express her gratitude. At one point going to church is mentioned as a privilege. Later we read about a child who “by cheerfully taking whatever comes, by being helpful and affectionate to all, and by wasting no time in daydreaming about what may happen, but making each day a comfort and a pleasure to yourself and others”. We see references to “doing unto others” and “Love your neighbors as yourself”. This is one we feel very confident in Recommending.

Plot SummaryNote: This information is typically from the publisher.Use with caution

Introducing a newly discovered original Christmas story from Louisa May Alcott -- the beloved author who has entertained generations of readers with Little Women, Little Men, and other enchanting tales. The Quiet Little Woman is about a lonely orphan girl named Patty, whose only desire is for a family to love her. Her tender story will warm the hearts of readers young and old alike. Two bonus stories -- Tilly's Christmas and Rosa's Tale -- are included in this exquisite edition. The message of hope and love makes this book an ideal Christmas gift, sure to become a family tradition and treasured keepsake.

Purchase LinkAbove Reproach: We intentionally do NOT use referral links on this site. Purchase Book Convenience Link