In a small American town, a young girl named Mary feels trapped in a world that does not allow her to be herself. Since she was little, she has been an adventurous and energetic girl, preferring to climb trees and play with the boys rather than participate in more "feminine" activities. Upon returning home after a summer full of adventures, her father, a traditional man, expects her to become a lady.
Defying expectations, Mary disguises herself as a boy so she can play with her friends and join in their antics. As she immerses herself in this new life, she begins to enjoy the freedom her disguise provides, but she also faces unexpected challenges. She falls in love with a young man from town, who, unaware of her true identity, is drawn to her independent spirit and her unique way of viewing the world.
The plot thickens when Mary's secret starts to come to light, forcing her to confront her feelings and question what it means to be a "lady" in the society of her time. With a great sense of humor and touches of romance, the story explores themes of identity and the struggle to be authentic in a world full of restrictive norms. In an unexpected twist, Mary must decide whether to continue hiding behind her disguise or finally reveal her true self, thus challenging the expectations of her family and society.