Jesse Bear is admonished not to get wet under a variety of tantalizing circumstances, until finally he receives permission in his own wading pool.

Rhymed text and illustrations describe Jesse Bear's activities from January to December.

When Jesse Bear finds out that his older cousin is coming for a visit, he's not happy about it; but things turn out differently from what he imagines.

Jesse Bear experiences the sights, smells, sounds, and activities of Christmas, from decorations and gifts to baking and caroling.