It was adapted from the popular 2007 novel Hawthorn Tree Forever by Ai Mi, which was based on a true story set during the Cultural Revolution.

Jing Qiu is lodged with the family of village head, where she meets geology student Sun Jianxin (nicknamed Lao San), who also takes his meals at Zhang's home, and she's drawn to his responsible and honorable character.

[2] Lao San's father held a high position in the military, but his mother committed suicide four years ago after being branded as a "rightist".

Jing Qiu's father was also a political prisoner somewhere in China and her mother, branded as a "capitalist", was reduced to menial work to support their family.

"[5] This film is based on the novel Hawthorn Tree Forever which was written by author Aimi and it was inspired by the real-life story of her friend, Jing.