A family grapples with financial strain and pride as a glamorous friend's secret upends their fragile balance.

Part of the Open Door series of short books for emerging readers. Kate is finding it hard to come to terms with her husband's unemployment. She and Bill are struggling to pay the bills. They don't have enough money for the children's Christmas presents. And having a boastful next-door neighbour isn't helping either. Then Kate's old friend Carmel phones to say that she'll be visiting soon. Carmel is glamorous and rich - she seems to have it all. What will Kate do? She hasn't told Carmel about Bill's job loss and she's too proud to admit that they're in trouble. But Carmel has a secret of her own ...