In small-town Wisconsin, 7-year-old Selma and 5-year-old Arnold play together between their families’ farms. Selma’s father gave her a newborn calf named ‘Elizabeth.’ Nels is the editor of the Fuller Junction Spectator; the kids simply call him ‘Editor.’ Viola is a fresh instructor from the large city. Nels wants to marry Viola, but she doesn’t want to live in a boring small town. The exciting news is that Faraassen has erected a new barn.