Sula Peace and Nel Wright grow up in the Bottom, a black community in Ohio. Despite their different family backgrounds, they become close friends due to their shared sense of loneliness and protection from bullies.

A pivotal event occurs when Sula accidentally causes the death of a boy named Chicken Little by swinging him into a river. The incident is kept secret, but it marks the beginning of a rift between Sula and Nel.

As they grow older, Nel marries Jude Greene and settles into a conventional life as a wife and mother. Sula, seeking freedom and individuality, leaves the Bottom for ten years. She attends college and lives in various cities, engaging in numerous affairs.

Sula returns to the Bottom in 1937, disrupting the community with her disregard for social norms. She resumes her friendship with Nel but soon has an affair with Nel's, leading to the end of Nel’s marriage.

The community views Sula as evil, attributing misfortunes to her presence while paradoxically improving their own behavior in reaction to her.

In 1940, Sula falls seriously ill. Nel visits her, seeking answers about the betrayal. Their conversation reveals deep-seated issues about friendship and independence.

Sula dies alone, reflecting on her life choices and the nature of her friendship with Nel.