The Lin Family Shop

A story is set in the 1930s in old China. Mr. Lin opens a general store, hoping his hard work and careful management will bring wealth to his family. However, at that time laborers and small business owners have low positions in society like the Lins, war and turbulence also make their lives very difficult. Moreover, they have to deal with feudal bureaucracy and the exploitation from the capitalist class. Their fate is out of their own control, and they have to engage in cutthroat competition, using any means to protect themselves. Although working hard and struggling to fulfill their yearning for a comfortable life, Lin fails finally and has no choice but to return to his distant hometown disappointedly. —National Library of Australia