Jo and her husband, Professor Bhaer, have turned 'Plumfield' from a decorous old house into a happy and home-like boarding school Franz at sixteen is the oldest, a pleasant musical boy, and Emil, the 'Commodore', is sea-struck Rob and Teddy are bouncy young Bhaers and the twins, Demi and Daisy are their cousins Dick and Dolly, eight-year-olds, both have a handicap Jack is sharp, and George is spoiled Then a skinny street musician of twelve is found in need of a home