The war over Jo has some success as a writer but is annoyed when Amy is chosen over her to accompany an aunt to Europe and, with Meg giving birth to twins, feels side-lined, despite love-lorn Laurie's efforts to cheer her. She moves to New York to further her writing career and earn money to help sickly Beth, meeting the kindly Professor Bhaer, who is minding his orphaned nephews, but Jo returns home to take Beth to the seaside. Beth finally openly confesses that she is severely weakened by her illness and the family must prepare for the worst. A grieving Jo considers eschewing writing, but is dissuaded by her father and finds success professionally. With Professor Bhaer, who comes looking for Jo since she did not return to New York as promised, finds success personally, whilst Laurie discovers happiness with Amy.