Book Series · 2 Books

Eight Cousins Books

In order from Eight Cousins to Rose in Bloom.

Louisa May Alcott's two Rose Campbell novels follow an orphaned girl from an unconventional education among seven boy cousins into the choices and losses of young adulthood.

Reviewed by the Bookroo Editors Updated August 19, 2026

Reading order

How to Read the Eight Cousins Books

Begin with Eight Cousins, which introduces Rose, Uncle Alec, and the Campbell family. Continue with Rose in Bloom, the direct sequel that returns to Rose and her cousins after they have grown up.

Some editions package the novels with other Alcott writing, but the connected Rose Campbell story consists of these two distinct books.

Sources: Penguin Random House's Rose in Bloom page, Library of America's official two-novel collection.

For parents

What Parents Should Know

Rose begins the series grieving her parents and recovering from poor health. The books discuss illness, death, alcohol use and temperance, courtship, marriage, and grief; Rose in Bloom includes an important death and its aftermath.

These nineteenth-century novels also reflect their period's assumptions about gender, health, class, and culture. Families may want to discuss the difference between Alcott's progressive interest in Rose's education and independence and language or attitudes that feel dated today.

Where the story begins

First Book in the Series

Sale price

$1697

Book #1 · Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 1874

Eight Cousins

By Louisa May Alcott

Orphaned Rose faces chaos and love with her lively new family.

288 pages· 72,711 words· Est. 8 hour read

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Thirteen-year-old Rose Campbell, orphaned and lonely, moves to her great aunts' home, 'Aunt-Hill.' Overwhelmed by six aunts and seven boisterous cousins, Rose struggles to find her place. Guided by her guardian, Uncle Alec, she navigates family dynamics, from Aunt Myra's worries to Aunt Clara's fashion influence. As Rose bonds with her new family, including adopting the housemaid Phebe as a sister, she transforms from timid to bold, learning to cherish her father's memory while embracing a hopeful future. Can Rose find her strength amidst the chaos and love of her newfound family?

In reading order