Ask HN: How does a beginner navigate the JavaScript MVC jungle?

HN, I am an average programmer. When I have time outside my day-to-day occupation, I develop webapps on the side. I usually develop in some combination of JavaScript, jQuery, PHP, and SQL. I want to move over to some dedicated JavaScript solution (using the MVC architecture pattern). I've been meaning to do so for a while, and over that time I have read a number of introductions to the various frameworks, i.e., Backbone, Angular, Meteor. And have a passing acquaintance with a few. But now that I want to develop a new product, I don't where to start with this fragmented JavaScript jungle. Do you have advice on: (1) The best MVC for beginners; (2) The best place to start with databases; (3) Essential reading; (4) General information/advice.