Zhang Xueshan, an abandoned baby, is adopted by five elderly people living alone in Xiahe Village. The seniors work tirelessly, giving everything they have to support his education. Despite financial hardships and public controversies, he perseveres through hard work, achieves the highest score in the provincial science examination, and earns admission to Qingbei. Holding firmly to his principles and remembering those who raised him, he rejects his biological parents' self-serving attempt to reclaim him. His story embodies the ordinary person's determination to overcome adversity, gratitude toward those who offer kindness, and commitment to giving back to his country and the people who raised him through knowledge and learning.