The Bear family goes to the beach, but before they can swim in the ocean there's a lot of work to be done.

As Valentine's Day approaches, Sister hopes for more attention from one boy and less from another.

Brother and Sister Bear learn that a new puppy is not a plaything, but a responsibility.

Mama Bear's reminders about the true meaning of Thanksgiving are left in the dust as the spirit of competition takes over and Papa Bear and the cubs begin a campaign to win first prize in the Thanksgiving Pumpkin contest.

Papa Bear is enthused about preparing for Bear Country School's Halloween Ghost Walk, but learns that "one person's fun is another person's nightmare."

"Sister Bear loves feeding and taking care of her pet goldfish, Goldie. But when Papa and Mama find Goldie floating belly-up one morning, they worry about how Sister will feel. How will the Bear family cope with the loss of Goldie, the best goldfish in the world?"--

In alternating chapters Stan and Jan Berenstain, creators of the Berenstain Bears, tell their own stories from early childhood until their marriage, then continue the tale together to the present day.