An Old-Fashioned Girl was first serialized in 1869 and consisted of only six chapters. For the finished product, however, Alcott continued the story so it ended up with nineteen chapters in all. The book revolves around Polly Milton, the old-fashioned girl of the title, who 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is overwhelmed by the fashionable and urban life they live—but also left out because of her "countrified" manners and outdated clothes.

From the SeaWolf Press edition

In this story Polly, the little country school teacher, has a hard time with a wealthy city family. By their actions they try to show the difference between them and the well-meaning little country girl. But Polly has the courage to face odds and to come through despite reverses that would discourage a less hardy soul. She shows her grit and ability in helping the rich family when they in their turn are faced with bad luck. How she is amply repaid for her good deeds forms a thrilling climax to the novel.

From the dust jacket of the Rainbow Classic Edition