Eight Cousins by Louisa May Alcott (Virago Modern Classics)

Eight Cousins, or The Aunt-Hill, is a children’s novel written by American author Louisa May Alcott . Originally published as a serial in St. Nicholas Magazine in 1874, the book tells the story of Rose Campbell, a recently orphaned girl who goes to live with her two great-aunts, wealthy but rather strict widows, at their mansion called “Aunt-Hill.”

Rose finds life at Aunt Hill to be lonely and confining. Her strict aunts, Plenty and Peace, keep her sheltered and swaddled in cotton wool. However, everything changes with the arrival of her Uncle Alec, a progressive thinker who believes in fresh air, exercise, and a more natural way of life.

Uncle Alec shakes things up at Aunt Hill, introducing Rose to her seven lively boy cousins who live nearby. Through her adventures with her cousins, Rose blossoms from a pale and sickly child into a strong, happy, and well-adjusted young woman.

Eight Cousins is a charming coming-of-age story that explores themes of family, friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of nature. It is a classic of children’s literature that continues to be enjoyed by readers of all ages.