In post-Civil War America, the March sisters prepare for Christmas without presents and without their father, a Union army chaplain who is away at war.

As Marmee waits by her husband's sickbed in the army hospital, the March sisters learn to cope without their parents. Meg is shocked and embarrassed to hear rumours circulating in society that Marmee is trying to marry her off to Laurie.

A year has passed and the March family welcomes Meg's twins, but Marmee and Jo are anxious as Beth's health and spirits flag. Aunt Carrol arrives with the opportunity for Jo to accompany her daughter on a tour of Europe, but chooses Amy instead.