Books › Little Stars
Little Stars
512 pages
A spirited romp through the glittering, gritty world of Victorian music halls, anchored by fierce friendships and theatrical dreams.
What it feels like
Reading this book feels like stepping into the bustling, gaslit wings of a Victorian music hall, where the glamour of the stage masks the gritty reality of survival. The narrative moves at a brisk, theatrical clip, driven by a fiercely plucky heroine whose voice is as dramatic as it is deeply earnest. It is a story steeped in the warmth of found family and the fierce protective instincts of older siblings, balancing the glittering allure of stardom with the harsh truths of growing up. The prose is accessible and spirited, perfectly capturing the emotional turbulence of first crushes and shifting loyalties. It will utterly delight readers who crave historical adventures filled with resilient children, colorful performers, and a deeply hopeful heart.
- Mood
- theatrical
- bustling
- hopeful
- gritty
- Tone
- plucky
- earnest
- dramatic
- warm
- Pace
- brisk
- Themes
- found family · chasing dreams · loss of innocence · protecting the vulnerable · first love
- The writing
- Direct, spirited, and highly engaging, capturing the distinctive, dramatic voice of a fiery Victorian heroine.
- The arc
- Moves from the desperate thrill of escape to the glittering but precarious reality of stage life, culminating in a hard-won sense of independence and loyalty.
- Who it's for
- Middle-grade readers who adore fiercely independent heroines, historical settings, and stories of found family amidst the glitter and grime of the stage.
Content notes
- child poverty
- mild peril
- orphanhood
About the book
Hetty Feather has begun a new chapter in her life story. Escaping from Tanglefield’s Travelling Circus with her dearest friend Diamond, Hetty is determined to find them positions as glamorous music hall artistes.
Hetty and Diamond quickly become the Little Stars of Mrs Ruby’s show, alongside many colourful acts – including an old friend from Hetty’s past, Flirty Bertie. But the Cavalcade proves a dangerous place, and Hetty must fight to protect her darling Diamond, who longs for a normal childhood. Meanwhile, Hetty struggles to understand her feelings for Bertie – and for Jem, whom she has never forgotten.
Hetty dreams of a glittering future for herself and Diamond. The bright lights of the London theatre world beckon – will Hetty become a true star?
Description from Open Library.
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