Set in 1962 and 1963, the show chronicled the trials and tribulations of the 11-to-12-year-old Oliver Beene (played by Grant Rosenmeyer), in first person perspective.

Oliver's father Jerry spends his days drilling teeth as a dentist, while his mother attempts to play the traditional homemaker.

Oliver's life is often made more bearable with friends Michael, Joyce and his crush Bonnie, who appears at his most embarrassing moments.

In the second season, both brothers have a crush on a Swedish girl, Elke, who moved into their apartment building.

In Germany, Das Erste HD broadcast both seasons, in their entirety, twice, once in 2006, and once in 2010, dubbed in German.