It Was a Short Summer, Charlie Brown

Charlie Brown, Linus, Schroeder, and Pig-Pen excitedly plan to spend their summer indulging in comic books, television, baseball, and classical music. Their enthusiasm is high as the break begins, promising a fun-filled summer.

Lucy unexpectedly informs the kids that they are all enrolled in summer camp, bringing excitement to the girls but dismay to the boys. The boys feel reluctant and jostle each other as they prepare to board the bus, while the girls line up orderly.

Upon arriving at camp, Charlie Brown is appointed captain of the boys' team. Both the boys and girls engage enthusiastically in their activities, although the boys are noticeably less enthusiastic about their new environment.

The kids participate in their first competition, a swimming race, where the girls dominate decisively, winning the event. The boys are left disappointed by their performance, feeling their efforts did not match the girls'

Next, the children compete in a softball game, with the boys suffering a heavy defeat by scoring only a single run. The persistent losses make the boys feel increasingly demoralized and discouraged.

Snoopy engages in an arm-wrestling match with the boys, capturing their interest. Inspired by Snoopy's strength, Charlie Brown and Shermy plan to organize an arm-wrestling contest to boost their pride.

Snoopy prepares for the arm-wrestling match by eating camp food, doing exercises, and drinking a strange, nutritious concoction. His rigorous training highlights his determination to win.

Snoopy, as 'The Masked Marvel,' faces Lucy in a tense arm-wrestling match. Both sweat and tire during the contest, which ends with Snoopy kissing Lucy, allowing him to pin her hand, but Lucy claims a foul and declares herself the winner.

As the new school year begins, Charlie Brown struggle to write an essay assigned on the first day. He and Linus are caught playing hangman in class, causing them to face the challenges of returning to school after summer camp.

Linus receives an A on his report card for his summer activities, while Charlie Brown is disappointed with a C−. Their contrasting achievements reflect their different experiences during the summer vacation.

Linus philosophically remarks that 'it was a short summer,' implying a sense of philosophical acceptance. Charlie Brown responds with resignation, remarking that 'it looks like it's going to be a long winter,' expressing his mixed feelings about the upcoming season.