Louisa May Alcott created a story that impresses through its simplicity and is able to help teenagers regain their trust and self-confidence even today. Exploring themes that revolve around family issues, being disregarded and rejected by friends, and the struggles of a young girl in the big city, An Old-Fashioned Girl is a tale that girls and women are able to closely identify with, many having been able to find solace in Alcott's fascinating and emotionally supportive tale. The novel tells the story of a young girl named Polly. She is 14, has a simple life with simple needs, and has always felt like somewhat of an outsider because of it. Although her friendship with Franny Shaw managed to earn her an interesting adventure in Boston, where she is able to explore a bold new world, she finds herself unable to fit in. Her simple dressing style and old-fashioned mannerisms and worldviews lead her on a path of rejection that bring her back to her small hometown, where she finds the strength and inspiration to help her brothers and overcome poverty. This inspiring tale emphasizes the advantages of a simple lifestyle and a belief system that does not rely on excess money and the constant pursuit of chaotic love interests. This is a book that explores the choices of seemingly simple characters faced with complex and challenging problems that most of us would cringe at in real life. Anyone who found themselves at some point unable to fit in or find a friend will be able to relate to the lovable, caring and somewhat innocent nature of young Polly. Alcott's ability to create such a powerful and remarkable female character has earned her praise for many years after she penned the novel, and Polly is still an inspiration for women today.