I think the fact the story is not a typical coming of age story is what makes exploring and experiencing it so memorable. I read a lot of books when I was younger and, although I loved reading them, it seems like the generic storylines are easily forgotten. Only a few books that I read stuck with me the way Little Women did, except maybe The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Maybe this was because I read both of those with my mom and we talked about them a lot. I’ll never forget how my mom cried when Beth died. Perhaps, a little part of me grew up as I was reading the story. That’s the first time I remember realizing that my mother, the strong person that she is, also cried and could breakdown. Also, it was one of the first books that didn’t really end happily ever after (at least for Beth). I think Alcott tries to allow the reader to grow along with her characters. I could be way off on this though.
On another note, I think that the ability to analyze the text makes rereading it more enjoyable. I love to look at Alcott’s subtle and not so subtle use of language and phrases. I don’t think I am quite as immersed in the story though, which seems sad to admit. I feel almost like I’m Meg and I’ve moved on past the games and stories and maybe I’ve grown up before I am ready. Somewhere I am sure that there is a Jo saying how sad and unfortunate it is that I am missing out.