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