Deep in Woodlands Forest, tucked behind a little greengrocer's shop called The Apple Core, a secret world is about to come to life.
Ben the greengrocer is a kind and gentle man who takes great care of his shop - and even greater care of the people around him. But this Christmas, his daughter cannot visit, and the village feels a little quieter and colder than usual.
What Ben doesn't know is that he is not alone. Hidden among the hessian sacks and wooden crates behind his beetroot shed live Florence and Bert Hedgehog and their small, lively daughters Milly and Tilly. Nearby are Archie the shy badger, who can never quite resist a beetroot, and two squirrels - bright and mischievous Pink Toe, and sweet, squinting Blinky, who Pink Toe insists really ought to wear glasses.
When the animals overhear the sad news that has taken the smile from Ben's face, Florence decides that simply will not do. And so, on a cold and snowy Christmas Eve, a very special plan begins - one that involves walnut shells, a coconut star, hessian thread, a great deal of beetroot, and more love and care than any shop could ever sell.
A warm, gently funny story about unlikely friendship, quiet kindness, and one small handmade gift that means everything - perfect for sharing by the fire with children aged three to seven.