An old woman living alone wished for a child. When a lady came to the door offering to grant a wish, the old woman let her in. After feeding and washing the lady, the lady offered to grant the old woman's wish. The old woman wished for a child. The lady gave the old woman a seed and instructions to care for it. The old woman followed the instructions and a flower grew from the seed, containing a tiny baby girl named Thumbelina. The old woman finally had a child to keep her company and bring her happiness.