It’s Christmas time at the McDonald house, but with the children’s constant bickering, silent nights – and days – are nowhere to be found. Pretty packages and a sweet-smelling tree don’t come close to filling the family home with the true spirit of the first Christmas. But that changes when mum revives an old tradition of building a soft bed for Baby Jesus in the manger; a single piece of straw is added for every kind act between family members. Will the quarrelling and negative feelings in the McDonald household ever cease? Inspired by a true story and filled with heart and humour, The Last Straw may forever change the way your own family celebrates Christmas.