Books, 1863-1998 and undated

The Carolyn Davis Collection documents the publishing history of one of the most popular books in American literature, Little Women, represented in the collection by 46 different editions. First published in 1868 by Roberts Brothers of Boston, the early editions of Little Women were characterized by rather restrained cloth bindings and simple drawings by the author's sister. An initial press run of 30,000 copies of the two-volume set sold within 14 months of publication and it is estimated that by 1929 more than 3 million copies had been sold. By the late 19th century, the lasting appeal of Little Women found outlets in new, more lavishly illustrated editions and in less expensive, mass-produced copies designed for a larger audience. 20th century editions of the book made use of innovations in book publishing such as illustrated book jackets, color illustrations, cheap mass-market paperback formats, and deluxe book club editions. The collection has examples of all of these, as well as foreign translations that demonstrate the universal attraction of Alcott's classic.

Louisa May Alcott's other works were never quite as consistent best sellers as Little Women, but the Carolyn Davis Collection shows evidence of sustained public demand for the author's less known titles. Many of these, such as Little Men, went through numerous editions and remain in print.

Students of publishing history will find the Carolyn Davis Collection of Louisa May Alcott to be a rich source demonstrating changing tastes and marketing strategies for a single title. Although always considered a children's book, Little Women evolved from being presented as a rather serious, morally uplifting story to a more entertaining and nostalgic tale enjoyed by the young and young at heart. Often the way a text is packaged and received is as important as the text itself in determining how each generation of readers reacts to a book. The Carolyn Davis Collection documents both the enduring popularity and subtle evolution of an American classic.