In Huli, Beijing, the Chen, Lin, and Pan families have transformed over forty years of reform. The Chen family's son, Chen Huan, became a famous economist, while daughter Chen Qing and her husband He Dahai overcame layoffs. The youngest, Chen Xiaoou, embodies modern women. The Lin family's son, Lin Yida, transitioned from government work to business, bringing his rural wife Qunying, who grew into a strong woman. Daughter Lin Pingping studied abroad but faced difficulties. The Pan family struggles with Liangzi's unemployment and his mother Pan Tao's hopes. Chen Huan succeeded professionally but lost in love, Lin Pingping had a challenging life abroad, Chen Qing and He Dahai found stability, and Lin Yida's business led to divorce and remarriage.