It was first serialised in the Merry’s Museum magazine between July and August in 1869 and consisted of only six chapters. For the finished product, however, Alcott continued the story from the chapter “Six Years Afterwards” and so it ended up with nineteen chapters in all. The book revolves around Polly Milton, the old-fashioned girl who titles the story. Polly visits her wealthy friend Fanny Shaw in the city and is overwhelmed by the fashionable and urban life they live––but also left out because of her “countrified” manners and outdated clothes.
The novel was the basis of a 1949 musical film starring Gloria Jean as Polly.
Chapter VIII. Six Years Afterward
Chapter X. Brothers and Sisters
Chapter XI. Needles and Tongues
Chapter XIV. Nipped in the Bud
Chapter XVII. Playing Grandmother