The four March sisters prepare for Christmas without their father.

Beth has become the adored friend of Mr Laurence. Amy has met with an accident for which Jo is morally responsible.

Mrs March has gone to Washington to nurse her husband.

Beth has recovered from a serious illness. Jo resents Meg's engagement to John Brooke as it means breaking up the family.

Jo has been asked to write her first novel. Meg and John, now married, have their first quarrel.

Amy has gone to Europe with Aunt March. Jo, to avoid the persistently amorous Laurie, has taken a job as a governess in New York. At home, Beth's health is causing concern.

Jo has returned from New York to find Beth gravely ill. Laurie, heartbroken that Jo can never return his love, has gone to Europe with his grandfather.

Beth has died and in France, Laurie has gone to Amy to comfort her. Jo has embarked on an important literary undertaking.