When Tim's father is badly injured, life suddenly changes. Unable to afford their home while his father is in hospital, his family moves to a small London flat. Tim is heartbroken that he cannot take his dog, Jelly. His sister, Carol, a promising dancer, must leave her ballet school, and his brother, Bill, is only thirteen but feels the weight of responsibility for everyone in his father's absence.

Then, in an extraordinary twist of fate, a small act of kindness leads to Tim inheriting a country house where the whole family - including Jelly - can live together. But how can they afford it? Caldicott Place is in need of repair and they have no money. When a solution is found - looking after wealthy children in the school holidays - Tim, Carol and Bill dread sharing their new home with spoiled rich children. But just as good fortune can come out of disaster, unexpected friendships can be made in the unlikeliest circumstances.