Book info

• Title The Secret Hen House Theatre
• Author Helen Peters
• Year 2012
• Genre Childrens

Since the death of her mother, Hannah's family life has been somewhat chaotic. Her father is absorbed by running their dilapidated farm, and the four children are increasingly left to their own devices. These include 'farming' each room of the house, looking after an enormous pet sheep called Jasper, and writing and directing plays in a disused hen house. But when the farm is threatened with demolition, Hannah determines to save it and realise her dreams at the same time...

Thoughts

This is a really charming story about a determined girl who wants to make a name for herself in the theatre, and put on her own production of a play she’s written, as well as keep her family together and save the family farm. It’s a big ask for a little girl, but it never seems totally out of the question. I really enjoyed reading this, following the story through its twists and turns, and the misunderstandings that occur along the way.

It’s hard to describe much more without spoiling anything, but there are some great characters - heroes and villains - and the scenes are painted in a way that make them very visual, easy to place in your mind. It’s a lovely book, both comfortable and uncomfortable in places, but ultimately winding to a great conclusion.

Rating: 4 / 5