Laura and Mary go to their first party at Nellie Oleson’s, wearing their best clothes and ribbons. Laura is stunned by the luxury of the Olesons’ home. The Oleson children are selfish with their toys, but at Mrs. Oleson’s command, Willie finally brings out a Noah’s ark and tin of soldiers for the children to play with.

Nellie brings out her china doll, quickly discarding her to show her new wax doll, which looks almost alive to Laura’s eyes. Laura reaches out and touches the silk of the doll’s dress, and Nellie screeches at her in response. Feeling abashed, Laura goes and sits down, and Mrs. Oleson brings her books. Then, there is cake. Nellie grabs the biggest piece, and Laura marvels at the sweetness. When the girls return home, Ma tells them that they must reciprocate hospitality, and plans for them to throw their own party.

Laura invites her friends at school to her party. They scrub their house clean and decorate and Ma makes vanity cakes. The girls from town arrive, all happy except Nellie, who complains about the gravel and shoos Jack away from her. When Ma greets the girls, Nellie tells her that she didn’t wear her best dress for just a country party, and Laura resolves to get even with her.