In the 80's of 20th century, Gao Ji Lin, a young man living in Gaojiagou in northern Shaanxi, was a well-known reading "champion" in the village. With a great talent for writing and poetry, despite coming from a poor family, the man aspired to achieve a greater goals. College entrance exams were supposed to help him with that. Unfortunately, Ji Lin unexpectedly falls off from the student list, and as if that wasn't enough, he also fails to become a private teacher in an primary school. His only ray of hope turns out to be Liu Qiao Zhen, who does everything to support him in his dream. Soon, thanks to the encouragement of the whole village, Ji Lin decides to fight for his career goal. Adapted from the novel "Life" (人生) by Lu Yao (路遥).