9-year-old Sheldon Cooper is a once-in-a-generation mind capable of advanced mathematics and science but learns that isn’t always helpful growing up in East Texas, a land where church and football are king.

To appease his worried mother, Sheldon employs the techniques of a self-help book to try and make a friend.

George Sr. strikes a deal with Sheldon to tutor Georgie when poor grades threaten to keep him from playing football. While Sheldon's tutoring attempts are ultimately unsuccessful, he does learn some skills from his brother.

When Mary takes a job as church secretary, she finds herself becoming Pastor Jeff's marriage counselor. Also, Sheldon and Missy spend their first afternoon home alone.

When Sheldon is no longer academically challenged at Medford High, he audits a college class taught by Dr. John Sturgis.

When Sheldon learns that people with stunted childhoods can turn into social outcasts, he tries to act. Connie and Dr. Sturgis' relationship is tested when she teaches him how to drive.

The Cooper family grapples with the death of George Cooper Sr.

Sheldon leaves East Texas for the California Institute of Technology following the death of his father.