The first day of October brings an unheralded and violent storm, which whips through the Cotswold village of fairacre, blowing down trees and telephone poles - and, worst of all, damaging the roof of St. patrick's Church. The inhabitants of tiny Fairacre can't imagine how they will be able to afford the repairs, until Mr. Willett suggests a fundraising festival. Preparations for a food sale, a concert, a school play, and a gigantic Christmas bazaar are soon made--but will they be enough? With her customary humor and grace, Miss Read recounts a story of catastrophe and courage.
