Midway through December, and for the fifth year running, the Sullivan family's South London house shows few signs of the holiday season. That is, until Henry, a widower, and his two children begin receiving eerie gifts from an unknown sender. A small-beaked and feathered face emerges first from a gap in a pear tree's branches. Before they realise it, the Sullivans' house is crowded with noisy visitors and animals that are all vying for their attention. The Sullivan family's lives are turned upside down throughout the ensuing twelve days in ways they never could have anticipated. And even though this Christmas will be chaotic, it might be the perfect present for their family.