One family is in for more than festive cheer in this new modern Christmas tale by bestselling author James Patterson.

No stockings, no gifts, no tinsel and no tree - has Christmas been cancelled?

It's mid-December and for the fifth year in a row, there is little sign of the festive season in the Sullivan family's home in South London. That is until a mysterious someone starts sending strange gifts to widower Henry and his two children.

First, a small-beaked and feathered face pokes its head out from between the branches of a pear tree. Before they know it, the Sullivan's home is full of boisterous animals and house guests, all demanding their attention.

The next twelve days turn the Sullivan family's lives upside down in ways they never could have imagined. And even though this Christmas will be messy, it may be just the gift their family needs.