Dorothy Gale is a fictional character and the protagonist of L. Frank Baum's classic children's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," published in 1900. A young girl from Kansas, Dorothy lives on a farm with her Aunt Em, Uncle Henry, and her little dog, Toto. Her life takes a fantastical turn when a cyclone sweeps her and Toto away to the magical Land of Oz.
In Oz, Dorothy embarks on a journey to find the Wizard of Oz, who she believes can help her return home. Along the way, she befriends the Scarecrow, who desires a brain; the Tin Woodman, who longs for a heart; and the Cowardly Lion, who seeks courage. Together, they face various challenges and adversaries, including the Wicked Witch of the West.
Dorothy's character embodies innocence, bravery, and kindness. Her iconic phrase, "There's no place like home," underscores the central theme of the story: the importance of family and home. The character of Dorothy Gale has been immortalized in popular culture, most notably through Judy Garland's portrayal in the 1939 film adaptation "The Wizard of Oz," which cemented Dorothy's place as a beloved figure in literature and film.