A group of recently orphaned siblings and a friend spend a summer at their coastal property, camping beside dramatic sea cliffs. The narrative follows their days of beach exploration, sketching, and simple building projects as they learn to manage household duties, limited income, and differing opinions about education and future plans. Outdoor pleasures and close companionship are tempered by health concerns and the pressure of financial responsibility, while the rugged shoreline and nearby landmarks provide a setting for personal growth, practical problem solving, and small local mysteries that shape the season's adventures.