Tensions rise between Maruko and Sakiko when a new notebook enters the picture. Then, Maruko's peaceful New Year is threatened by responsiblities looming over the horizon.
Sakiko gets a tutor that doesn't meet Maruko's exacting standards. Then, sick of being late for class, Maruko decides to buy an alarm clock.
While Maruko hopes this year's home visit from her sensei will go smoothly, her capacity for self-sabotage has other ideas. Then, Maruko's hopes for an easy role in class are dashed when she finds out she's paired with the pretentious go-getter Hanawa.
When all the kids her age become obsessed with riding bicycles, Maruko has no choice but to suffer the trials and tribulations of learning how to ride one.
Maruko is thrilled to be getting a certificate for her submission to an art contest, but complications arise by the time she has to actually go on stage. Then, Maruko's hubris gets the better of her when she's allowed to stay home from school after she catches a cold.
Maruko and Tama-chan find a stray puppy and begin keeping her in a cardboard box behind the school while they try to find a home for her.
Maruko's family heads to a French restaurant to broaden their palettes, but nobody is quite ready for what they'll encounter there. Then, the dreaded school marathon has finally arrived, much to Maruko's chagrin.
It's the last day before summer vacation, but a never-ending list of chores before school can be let out takes the wind out of Maruko's sails.
Maruko, Sakiko, and Grandpa wreak havoc at a nearby fish store when they compete to determine who is the best at scooping goldfish.
