Since Hannah's mum died, things have been a bit chaotic for her family as her dad struggles to look after four children and a farm on his own. Money is tight but Hannah loves her life on the farm and wouldn't trade it for anything. She dreams of a future in the world of drama and so when the opportunity arrives to take part in a local drama competition Hannah and her best friend Lottie jump at the chance. They decide to perform a play that Hannah has written herself but as they're not part of a drama company they need to find a cast and a venue. Hannah and Lottie decide to create The Secret Hen House Theatre when they stumble across her mother's old hen house. They embark on the challenge of putting together the performance whilst keeping it completely secret from Hannah's father, a challenge that becomes even more important as the future of Hannah's life on the farm comes under threat.
This book is well written, engaging and fun. It's the sort of story I would have loved when I was younger. It bridges the gap between being a young child but not yet a teen nicely. Hannah is charming, fun and well-meaning, with that childlike belief that anything is possible balanced by the reality of life. The world and supporting characters are completely believable and fill their roles well. It was a joy to read and is a brilliant and moving book that is perfect for any girl who has an interest in animals, farms, drama or who just loves a really good story.
I give it 7/10 :)
Title: The Secret Hen House Theatre
Author: Helen Peters
Publisher: Nosy Crow
9-12 Fiction
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