Five short stories starring Kit are followed by brief actual accounts of what life was like for Americans during the Great Depression.

When Kit's family has to take in boarders, it seems as if they may be able to keep their house although her father lost his business, but the changes put a strain on Kit's friendship with Ruthie, especially as Kit spends her days helping cranky Uncle Hendrick.

It is 1934, and the Great Depression has found the Kittredges. First, Kit's father loses his job, then the family is forced to take in boarders to make ends meet.