This story tells of a young squirrel named Lazy Gray who, spoiled by his family, refuses to do any work, particularly gathering nuts for the winter. When the cold weather arrives and his small, reluctantly gathered stash runs out, he is forced to beg from other squirrels who eventually teach him a harsh lesson by giving him only a small, rationed amount of food. Experiencing true hunger throughout the winter transforms Lazy Gray; he learns the value of hard work, responsibility, and preparing for the future, diligently gathering his own ample supply of nuts the following year.