This is a simple story of the members of a peasant family in Sicily, who cannot communicate with their emigrant son, because they are unable to read or write. Their problem is solved once they start attending evening classes at the village school. This film was made during a campaign against illiteracy and was primarily designed for showing in Sicily and South Italy.

After the end of the 2nd world war, the Italian Government undertook an extensive campaign against illiteracy in southern Italy - statistics from the 1930's indicated 40% of illiteracy on Sicily, 46% in Lucania and 48% in Calabria. With the war, the problem became more difficult to solve than ever. UNESCO decided in 1952 to include the Italian National League for the Struggle Against Illiteracy among its Associated Projects in Fundamental Education, and provided information and expertise.

on this subject: Synopsis and background information (UNESDOC)