The story revolves around Valliammai (Valli), an eight-year-old girl who is highly curious and has no playmates. Her favorite pastime is standing in her doorway to watch the street. Her deepest desire is to ride the bus that travels between her village and the nearest town.
Valli meticulously plans her journey by listening to neighbors' conversations and asking discreet questions. She learns key details:
Valli slips out during her mother's afternoon nap. On the bus, her self-respect and confidence shine as she refuses help from the conductor, who jokingly calls her madam. She is mesmerized by the outside views: green fields, palm trees, and a young cow running in front of the bus, which makes her laugh heartily.
In town, Valli stays on the bus to return. On the way back, she sees the same cow lying dead by the roadside, struck by a vehicle. This sight fills her with deep sadness, dampening her enthusiasm. She experiences her first real encounter with the mystery of life and death.
A humorous ballad by Ogden Nash about Belinda and her pets who boast of their bravery, while Custard the dragon is mocked as a coward.
When a pirate breaks in, everyone flees in terror except Custard. Custard snorts like an engine, clashes his tail, and gobbles the pirate up. Afterward, the others make excuses and claim they would have been braver, which Custard humbly accepts.