Little women - Louisa May Alcott

'Timeless' HELEN MOORE, DAILY EXPRESS

'I try to get every girly girl to read this one because those four sisters are so real. Everybody's favourite is Jo, the tomboy who wants to be a writer' JACQUELINE WILSON

'I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.'

The four March sisters couldn't be more different: Meg, the eldest, is dutiful and patient; Jo is adventurous, with dreams of being a great writer; shy, musical Beth is the peacemaker; and headstrong Amy likes the finer things in life. They may not always get along, but with their father away in the Civil War and their mother struggling to make ends meet, the sisters have never needed each other more. Together, the girls navigate growing up - from first love to sibling rivalry, loss and marriage. Whatever comes their way, they know they can rely on each other.

Also available in Virago Children's Classics: Good Wives, Little Men and Jo's Boys