REVIEW: MEG & JO, BY VIRGINIA KANTRA

 

The timeless classic Little Women inspired this heartwarming modern tale of four sisters from New York Times bestselling author Virginia Kantra.

The March sisters—reliable Meg, independent Jo, stylish Amy, and shy Beth—have grown up to pursue their separate dreams. When Jo followed her ambitions to New York City, she never thought her career in journalism would come crashing down, leaving her struggling to stay afloat in a gig economy as a prep cook and secret food blogger.

Meg appears to have the life she always planned—the handsome husband, the adorable toddlers, the house in a charming subdivision. But sometimes getting everything you’ve ever wanted isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

When their mother’s illness forces the sisters home to North Carolina for the holidays, they’ll re-discover what really matters.

One thing’s for sure—they’ll need the strength of family and the power of sisterhood to remake their lives and reimagine their dreams.

My Thoughts: As I dived into Meg and Jo, I felt as though I were revisiting a family I had loved for years. But despite the familiarity of the characters I had first met in Little Women, these family members were just different enough that I would discover the newness of them, too.

Set in contemporary times, we first connect with Jo in Manhattan, working in a restaurant and writing a food blog. I loved how she shared her self-discoveries, her life, and the Chef who turns out to be more than just a boss.

In North Carolina, Meg and John and their twins are enjoying their life as a family, but at the same time, the two of them are realizing that their communication could use some work.

Marmee’s illness changes the family dynamics, and the daughters realize that they need to step in and help out more.

Amy and Beth make brief appearances, but the focus is on Jo and Meg and their life changes. A delightful read. 5 stars.

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