On Picket Duty, and Other Tales   By: Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888)

On Picket Duty, and Other Tales by Louisa May Alcott is a collection of short stories that captivated me from the very beginning. Alcott, known for her beloved novel Little Women, delivers a diverse range of narratives in this lesser-known work.

One aspect that struck me about this collection is Alcott's ability to transport readers to different worlds. From historical settings to fantastical realms, each story is unique and engrossing. Alcott's vivid descriptions enable readers to visualize every scene, effortlessly immersing themselves in the narrative.

The characters in On Picket Duty, and Other Tales are incredibly well-developed and relatable. Alcott delves into their inner thoughts, fears, and motivations, making them come alive on the pages. Whether it is a young soldier in the Civil War or a mischievous sprite in a fairy tale, each character has depth and complexity, engaging the reader in their individual journeys.

The themes explored in this collection are thoughtful and thought-provoking. Alcott tackles societal issues such as gender roles, war, and injustice, highlighting their sometimes devastating consequences. She effortlessly weaves these themes into her stories while maintaining a delicate balance between entertainment and conveying a thoughtful message.

One of the standout stories in this collection is undoubtedly the title piece, "On Picket Duty." Set during the Civil War, the tale follows the experiences of a young soldier who finds himself on the front lines. Alcott's poignant portrayal of the soldiers' camaraderie and the harsh realities of war is both heart-wrenching and enlightening.

Another notable story is "The Love of Gold," a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed. Through the character of Tom Field, Alcott explores the human desire for wealth and its consequences, ultimately offering an important lesson about the value of true happiness.

Overall, On Picket Duty, and Other Tales showcases Louisa May Alcott's exceptional storytelling ability. Her tales are filled with insightful observations, relatable characters, and powerful messages. Whether you are a fan of Alcott's more well-known works or simply enjoy short stories with depth, this collection is a must-read.

First Page:

October moonlight shone clearly on the solitary tree, draped with gray moss, scarred by lightning and warped by wind, looking like a venerable warrior, whose long campaign was nearly done; and underneath was posted the guard of four. Behind them twinkled many camp fires on a distant plain, before them wound a road ploughed by the passage of an army, strewn with the relics of a rout. On the right, a sluggish river glided, like a serpent, stealthy, sinuous, and dark, into a seemingly impervious jungle; on the left, a Southern swamp filled the air with malarial damps, swarms of noisome life, and discordant sounds that robbed the hour of its repose. The men were friends as well as comrades, for though gathered from the four quarters of the Union, and dissimilar in education, character, and tastes, the same spirit animated all; the routine of camp life threw them much together, and mutual esteem soon grew into a bond of mutual good fellowship... Continue reading book >>