Uccio, the father left Cisternino in search for a better life for his family. He left his wife, Nuncia behind with their 3 children. But one night when someone tried to rape Nuncia, and her father died as a result, she follows Uccio to Turin, where he works for Fiat.
Ucciodies at the plant trying to save a younger worker and Nuncia is forced to work at the factory to raise her children and give them a good education.
The family goes through hardship and trials. The youngest boy becomes involved with other boys who are children of migrant workers... born in the country but raised in Turin. They choose a life of petty crime. The older boy finishes school and is hired by Fiat and given a good job while Nuncia continues to work in the assembly line. The only girl gets involved with an older man but quickly realizes he is no good.
