Dorothy is in Kansas, where she lives with her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry, at the beginning of the story. She is a bright, brave young girl who enjoys playing with Toto, her dog.
When Dorothy says she wants to go back to Kansas, she is told that only the great Wizard of Oz can help her. She moves toward the Emerald City, where Oz lives.
He explains that he has been standing in the same spot for a year because he was caught outside in the rain, which rusted his joints. He decides to go with them after Dorothy rubs oil on his joints, hoping the Wizard will give him a heart.
Soon after, a Lion tries to bite Toto, but when Dorothy hits him on the nose, the animal admits that he is a terrible coward. He joins the group in the hope that the Wizard will inspire him to be brave.
When they get to the Emerald City, the Wizard informs them that he will only grant their wishes if the Wicked Witch of the West is killed. They turn west because they believe they have no choice. The witch seizes Dorothy and the Lion after spotting Dorothy's silver shoes and looking for a way to steal them.
When they get there, Dorothy realizes that all she has to do to get home is tap the Silver Shoes' heels together. When she returns to Kansas, she discovers that Uncle Henry has constructed a brand-new residence. She shouts that it's good to be home as she rushes toward Aunt Em.