Lin An was born into a poor farming family that valued education. Steady and filial, he never slacked off in his studies despite years of hardship. He kept his feet on the ground, progressing step by step from licentiate to provincial graduate and then tribute scholar. With no melodramatic twists or showboating, the story centers on a warm family and the tender support of his parents, grandparents, and sisters. In the end, he places among the top graduates in the second class of the palace examination, rises from humble beginnings, and brings honor to his family. The story is full of everyday warmth and healing comfort.
