Louisa May Alcott (1832–1888) was an American novelist, best known for her classic work “Little Women,” which is loosely based on her own experiences growing up with her sisters in Massachusetts. Alcott was a prolific writer, producing numerous novels, short stories, and essays that often focused on themes of family, domestic life, and personal development. Her works continue to resonate with readers for their realistic portrayal of 19th-century American life and their strong, progressive female characters.