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Hetty Feather #5
Little Stars
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?
Starring a cast of wonderful characters, both old favourites and new, this is the fifth fabulous Hetty Feather story.
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?
Starring a cast of wonderful characters, both old favourites and new, this is the fifth fabulous Hetty Feather story.
512 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2015
125 people are currently reading
1536 people want to read
About the author
Jacqueline Wilson
399 books5,687 followersJacqueline Wilson was born in Bath in 1945, but spent most of her childhood in Kingston-on-Thames. She always wanted to be a writer and wrote her first ‘novel’ when she was nine, filling in countless Woolworths’ exercise books as she grew up. As a teenager she started work for a magazine publishing company and then went on to work as a journalist on Jackie magazine (which she was told was named after her!) before turning to writing novels full-time.
One of Jacqueline’s most successful and enduring creations has been the famous Tracy Beaker, who first appeared in 1991 in The Story of Tracy Beaker. This was also the first of her books to be illustrated by Nick Sharratt. Since then Jacqueline has been on countless awards shortlists and has gone on to win many awards. The Illustrated Mum won the Guardian Children’s Fiction Award, the 1999 Children’s Book of the Year at the British Book Awards and was also shortlisted for the 1999 Whitbread Children’s Book Award.
Double Act won the prestigious Smarties Medal and the Children’s Book Award as well as being highly commended for the Carnegie Medal. The Story of Tracy Beaker won the 2002 Blue Peter People’s Choice Award.
Jacqueline is one of the nation’s favourite authors, and her books are loved and cherished by young readers not only in the UK but all over the world. She has sold millions of books and in the UK alone the total now stands at over 35 million!
In 2002 Jacqueline was awarded the OBE for services to literacy in schools and from 2005 to 2007 she was the Children’s Laureate. In 2008 she became Dame Jacqueline Wilson.
One of Jacqueline’s most successful and enduring creations has been the famous Tracy Beaker, who first appeared in 1991 in The Story of Tracy Beaker. This was also the first of her books to be illustrated by Nick Sharratt. Since then Jacqueline has been on countless awards shortlists and has gone on to win many awards. The Illustrated Mum won the Guardian Children’s Fiction Award, the 1999 Children’s Book of the Year at the British Book Awards and was also shortlisted for the 1999 Whitbread Children’s Book Award.
Double Act won the prestigious Smarties Medal and the Children’s Book Award as well as being highly commended for the Carnegie Medal. The Story of Tracy Beaker won the 2002 Blue Peter People’s Choice Award.
Jacqueline is one of the nation’s favourite authors, and her books are loved and cherished by young readers not only in the UK but all over the world. She has sold millions of books and in the UK alone the total now stands at over 35 million!
In 2002 Jacqueline was awarded the OBE for services to literacy in schools and from 2005 to 2007 she was the Children’s Laureate. In 2008 she became Dame Jacqueline Wilson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
January 31, 2016
Not actually overly impressed with this book. At the age of 20 I'm still keeping up to date with the Hetty Feather series after falling in love with it aged 14, but although the story of this volume was interesting, especially in terms of Hetty's further development into adulthood, I found it unfulfilling in relation to the story of the whole series. I felt like Jem and Janet's wedding should have been a greater climax rather than a short couple of chapters in the middle of the book, and honestly I was expecting them to come back into the story towards the end of the book with some dramatic twist. I felt as though the end of the book was a bit of an anti-climax. Although it was great to read about Hetty's breakthrough with acting, the fact remained that poor Diamond was still not given her happy ending. Although Hetty had told her she didn't have to act anymore, and she was pleased to have Madame Adeline and Bertie with her, the fact remains that she still doesn't have the normal childhood she craves, and deserves. I don't know if Jacqueline Wilson is planning on writing another volume in this series (I greatly hope she will), but if she does, I would very much like to see Hetty and Diamond in a much stable place by the end of it. Settled in a proper home, with Hetty finally happy, perhaps with Bertie, though I never really favoured him as a love interest for her, and Diamond finally freed from the burden of earning money and being allowed to enjoy the rest of her carefree years as a child.
October 17, 2020
This is the second Jacqueline Wilson book I’ve read aloud to my daughter and we loved it! When I purchased it, I did not realize it was one of a series, but that did not matter. We’ll read something by someone else next, but I plan to return to this series in the near future, probably with Hetty Feather.
A few reviews by Jacqueline Wilson fans expressed disappointment with this one, which is great news to me. If the earlier ones make this a let-down, wow.
At the start of this book Hetty and her younger friend Diamond are traveling across part of England on a penny farthing. They hope to get employed as music hall artistes at a place called the Cavalcade. They have just escaped a circus, an event that is apparently covered in a previous book.
Earlier events and characters are often alluded to, but it did not confuse. In fact, it piqued my interest in Hetty and her other adventures.
Hetty is a great character. She’s smart and resourceful and caring. Diamond needs someone, and Hetty is there for her while being a convincing sixteen (or seventeen?) year old. Hetty is full of vim. When Diamond acts her age, Hetty keeps her going. The writing was great. The author describes the countryside and the scrumptious cooking there and a bawdy audience in a music hall with equal panache. The other characters, no matter how small their role, are deftly and deeply portrayed, from the landlady, Ms. Gibson, to Hetty’s role models, Mrs Ruby and Miss Marina Royal. Everyone is not perfect, and Hetty is somewhat innocent. For example, she doesn’t get all the suggestive jokes she hears performed on stage (they are not shared with the reader), but she’s wise enough to try to avoid a man, Samson, whose interest in her is clearly inappropriate and would definitely damage her reputation. Occasionally, once in a long while, I worried the material was a little too mature for a second grader, assuming she picked up on it, but ultimately I think it was okay. Samson is as sinister as any undead. His lurking presence is a good lesson, I think, especially for the older readers who are probably reading this independently. (Sexuality is not demonised though; Hetty flirts with Bertie and it's fine.)
The story takes place in earlier times. When exactly was unclear to me, which occasionally felt like a shortcoming, but most of the time I did not mind. So much was excellent!
A few reviews by Jacqueline Wilson fans expressed disappointment with this one, which is great news to me. If the earlier ones make this a let-down, wow.
At the start of this book Hetty and her younger friend Diamond are traveling across part of England on a penny farthing. They hope to get employed as music hall artistes at a place called the Cavalcade. They have just escaped a circus, an event that is apparently covered in a previous book.
Earlier events and characters are often alluded to, but it did not confuse. In fact, it piqued my interest in Hetty and her other adventures.
Hetty is a great character. She’s smart and resourceful and caring. Diamond needs someone, and Hetty is there for her while being a convincing sixteen (or seventeen?) year old. Hetty is full of vim. When Diamond acts her age, Hetty keeps her going. The writing was great. The author describes the countryside and the scrumptious cooking there and a bawdy audience in a music hall with equal panache. The other characters, no matter how small their role, are deftly and deeply portrayed, from the landlady, Ms. Gibson, to Hetty’s role models, Mrs Ruby and Miss Marina Royal. Everyone is not perfect, and Hetty is somewhat innocent. For example, she doesn’t get all the suggestive jokes she hears performed on stage (they are not shared with the reader), but she’s wise enough to try to avoid a man, Samson, whose interest in her is clearly inappropriate and would definitely damage her reputation. Occasionally, once in a long while, I worried the material was a little too mature for a second grader, assuming she picked up on it, but ultimately I think it was okay. Samson is as sinister as any undead. His lurking presence is a good lesson, I think, especially for the older readers who are probably reading this independently. (Sexuality is not demonised though; Hetty flirts with Bertie and it's fine.)
The story takes place in earlier times. When exactly was unclear to me, which occasionally felt like a shortcoming, but most of the time I did not mind. So much was excellent!
June 7, 2016
Little Stars is the fifth book in the Hetty Feather series by Jacqueline Wilson, and I think that it is a great way to end the series.
Hetty is still the same person, but she is older and everything steps up a little. All of her little dreams seemed big when she was little, but now, given her circumstances in 'Little Stars' at the cavalcade and with acting, they seem so small compared with her dreams now. Being the Ringmaster at the circus in 'Diamond' was such a big and fantastic thing, but now looking at her being a professional actor it seems like her circus life was not professional and not proper. Now Hetty's life is real professional, despite her still being called a child.
The setting shows a different part of Victorian times at the cavalcade - a glamorous music hall. You feel like Hetty's life has been so busy in about the last two year of her life as she has been all over the place doing so many different things. But they never seem to last very long because Hetty seems to like change!
And then there is Diamond who is now Hetty's 'sister'. She acts more childish because all of her young child years had been wasted being an acrobatic child wonder in the circus. I don't think that Diamond likes change because it's hard for her to get used to different things at such a young age.
There is a fair bit of love and some sorrow in this book. I just wanted to find out what happens to Hetty with her love life, and Diamond as well. This book brings back some old characters, and I enjoyed finding out what happens to them in the end. And also there are countless new characters, one being Hetty's new heroine. As a child, Hetty wanted to be like Madame Adeline, but now it's Marina Royal, and you can see why. You discover another fabulous talent of Hetty's that is one of her best. It's weird to think that she never ever thought about acting in her childhood, but she is so good at it now. Her personality suits her profession perfectly.
Hetty's memoirs are still going strong, and after her hard past, I believe she deserves her successful future - its only just begun. I absolutely loved this book and I will definitely find myself picking it up again and again to enjoy Hetty and Diamond's brilliant story.
Hetty is still the same person, but she is older and everything steps up a little. All of her little dreams seemed big when she was little, but now, given her circumstances in 'Little Stars' at the cavalcade and with acting, they seem so small compared with her dreams now. Being the Ringmaster at the circus in 'Diamond' was such a big and fantastic thing, but now looking at her being a professional actor it seems like her circus life was not professional and not proper. Now Hetty's life is real professional, despite her still being called a child.
The setting shows a different part of Victorian times at the cavalcade - a glamorous music hall. You feel like Hetty's life has been so busy in about the last two year of her life as she has been all over the place doing so many different things. But they never seem to last very long because Hetty seems to like change!
And then there is Diamond who is now Hetty's 'sister'. She acts more childish because all of her young child years had been wasted being an acrobatic child wonder in the circus. I don't think that Diamond likes change because it's hard for her to get used to different things at such a young age.
There is a fair bit of love and some sorrow in this book. I just wanted to find out what happens to Hetty with her love life, and Diamond as well. This book brings back some old characters, and I enjoyed finding out what happens to them in the end. And also there are countless new characters, one being Hetty's new heroine. As a child, Hetty wanted to be like Madame Adeline, but now it's Marina Royal, and you can see why. You discover another fabulous talent of Hetty's that is one of her best. It's weird to think that she never ever thought about acting in her childhood, but she is so good at it now. Her personality suits her profession perfectly.
Hetty's memoirs are still going strong, and after her hard past, I believe she deserves her successful future - its only just begun. I absolutely loved this book and I will definitely find myself picking it up again and again to enjoy Hetty and Diamond's brilliant story.
October 11, 2015
I really enjoyed this book, I originally read Hetty Feather
when it came out and I've read each sequel as it came out. Although Jacqueline has said that she thinks Little stars will be the last in the series I think that there is the possibility of a sixth book as the end is pretty open to further events.
when it came out and I've read each sequel as it came out. Although Jacqueline has said that she thinks Little stars will be the last in the series I think that there is the possibility of a sixth book as the end is pretty open to further events.
March 21, 2017
The story of Hetty Feather’s life continues with this latest absorbing novel about the feisty young heroine.
Fifteen-year-old Hetty Feather and eight-year-old Diamond have escaped from Tanglefield’s Travelling Circus. Hetty, a foundling, had run away to join the circus and succeeded as a clever young ringmaster, although she discovered it was a hard life. Diamond was the star of the Silver Tumblers acrobatic act. Unfortunately, a cruel clown, Beppo, who trained the acrobats had half-starved Diamond and beat her fiercely if she made even a slight mistake.
Hetty realised the circus was a tawdry place and determined to rescue Diamond from Beppo. Together the two girls fled on the clown’s penny farthing bicycle and set off in search of the Cavalcade Music Hall where they could make a better life for themselves by performing on the stage.
The people the girls meet, the friends they make, the dangers they encounter, and the glamorous music hall entertainers they accompany, all make fascinating reading. Hetty’s and Diamond’s adventures are a marvellous tale of theatrical life based on the stage stars of early days.
There’s drama, peril, sadness, a budding romance and happy times skilfully woven into the fabric of Hetty’s story. She’s a plucky heroine and this fifth book about her trials and triumphs will appeal to intermediate-age readers who enjoy an entertaining historical novel.
Reviewed by Jean Bennett (Bookrapt)
Fifteen-year-old Hetty Feather and eight-year-old Diamond have escaped from Tanglefield’s Travelling Circus. Hetty, a foundling, had run away to join the circus and succeeded as a clever young ringmaster, although she discovered it was a hard life. Diamond was the star of the Silver Tumblers acrobatic act. Unfortunately, a cruel clown, Beppo, who trained the acrobats had half-starved Diamond and beat her fiercely if she made even a slight mistake.
Hetty realised the circus was a tawdry place and determined to rescue Diamond from Beppo. Together the two girls fled on the clown’s penny farthing bicycle and set off in search of the Cavalcade Music Hall where they could make a better life for themselves by performing on the stage.
The people the girls meet, the friends they make, the dangers they encounter, and the glamorous music hall entertainers they accompany, all make fascinating reading. Hetty’s and Diamond’s adventures are a marvellous tale of theatrical life based on the stage stars of early days.
There’s drama, peril, sadness, a budding romance and happy times skilfully woven into the fabric of Hetty’s story. She’s a plucky heroine and this fifth book about her trials and triumphs will appeal to intermediate-age readers who enjoy an entertaining historical novel.
Reviewed by Jean Bennett (Bookrapt)
December 24, 2020
I have always been a huge fan of Hetty Feather but this new story grabbed like a magnet until I finished it
May 20, 2024
Jacqueline Wilson has worked wonders with the story of Hetty Feather and Diamond! Now, seeking life as music hall artistes, our beloved characters are well-off with a place to stay where Hetty earns their keep sewing gowns for Miss Gibson from Gibson's Gowns, and performing a child novelty act in the Cavalcade music hall for Mrs Ruby. All is well until Hetty goes a little too far and the ruthless Mrs Ruby sacks them on the spot! Hetty has to say goodbye to the Cavalcade music hall and all its artistes including her dear friend Bertie. But not all is lost when they are asked to join the Parkinson Players, a famous acting company. And Madame Adeline herself is back albeit with only one monkey and no Mr Marvel. Soon the girls are famous and after four other books, you should know, there's no stopping Hetty Feather!
November 28, 2015
Initial thoughts: This was a fantastic sequel to my favourite historical fiction series. I'm eagerly anticipating a new one.5/5 stars.
SPOILERS!!!: I loved the romance between Hetty and Bertie. I loved everything about this but Hetty really. She sometimes got on my nerves. I wanted her to talk about writing and her memoirs but a vague mention only. This is still the ambitious and determined foundling I fell in love reading about, but in a way I couldn't relate to her. She always wanted more than she could afford and her feelings about Bertie annoyed me. They always changed. I still love Hetty and she is still my favourite character but she annoyed me a little in this book.
SPOILERS!!!: I loved the romance between Hetty and Bertie. I loved everything about this but Hetty really. She sometimes got on my nerves. I wanted her to talk about writing and her memoirs but a vague mention only. This is still the ambitious and determined foundling I fell in love reading about, but in a way I couldn't relate to her. She always wanted more than she could afford and her feelings about Bertie annoyed me. They always changed. I still love Hetty and she is still my favourite character but she annoyed me a little in this book.
October 13, 2015
I had high hopes for this book i've read all of Jacqueline Wilson's other books and please don't critcise me for not liking this book i'm surprised i didn't because all of her other books i have but i feel like jacqueline wilson was just dragging the books on the hetty feather books should have finished at Diamond story i found it really slow and not exciting
June 21, 2018
I have finally read this and I have thoroughly enjoyed this series! I am an older Jacqueline Wilson reader, but have been loving this series over the past few years. Hetty is such an inspiration towards girls and I have and will continue admiring her character. This book had the usual adventure with twists and turns for a Hetty Feather book, as well as included more romance! I must admit; there was one bit towards the end of the book, where I was getting nervous that Hetty was not going to get herself out of a difficult situation... Thank god this book had a really nice ending! I do think we all will continue desiring for a epilogue of Hetty's life years later... Maybe an idea Jacqueline Wilson?? Either way I have heard Hetty makes a couple of appearances in a couple of newer books that take place during this similar time period. I have loved this series and will continue treasuring it regardless of how old i get. I will also choose to continue picking up certain books that Jacky will publish in the future. I need to get my hands on these newer books! Either way I gave this book 5 stars as honestly this story will stay with me for a very long time.
March 12, 2024
spoilers (i guess?) ‼️
not gonna lie but hetty is getting so irritating, i dont like how she was so mean to bertie sometimes and how she literally cant decide on how she feels about anyone 😭😭
but this book was amazing and i loved the ending so much :D i just wish she visted her father again. she literally took his copy of david copperfield and told her when she finishes she'll visit him and give it back, THAT WAS 3 BOOKS AGO .
okay but this was an amazing way to end the series and i absolutely loved reading these books :3
not gonna lie but hetty is getting so irritating, i dont like how she was so mean to bertie sometimes and how she literally cant decide on how she feels about anyone 😭😭
but this book was amazing and i loved the ending so much :D i just wish she visted her father again. she literally took his copy of david copperfield and told her when she finishes she'll visit him and give it back, THAT WAS 3 BOOKS AGO .
okay but this was an amazing way to end the series and i absolutely loved reading these books :3
October 18, 2015
This book tied up everything we know about Hetty and Diamond in a really lovely way. The ending was perfect and the story on the whole was exciting throughout. I love Jacqueline Wilson and have been reading her books since I was a little girl. I am now 26 and I still get butterflies in my stomach when I know a new book is out in the shelves. Well done Jacky!
July 9, 2020
To start with, I did not expect this book to be so good. The previous two books had been rather dull, but it was a pleasant surprise to find that this book was extremely exciting and interesting!
November 10, 2019
This was the best book of the series!!!! I’m so upset I’ve finished it!! 😭😭😭
December 9, 2019
An amazing finale to the series. I need more.
February 27, 2023
Love Hetty but wow she makes her own life difficult sometimes, girl this is Victorian England
February 18, 2021
If you’ve read the other hetty feather books then you will love this one! In my opinion, this is the best book of them all! Follow Hetty on her hard journey as she struggles to look after 8 year old Diamond, who just longs for a normal childhood. After putting together a ventriloquist show and naming themselves the little stars, Hetty learns that it’s actually harder work than it looks. Travel with Hetty through love, heartbreak,tears and excitement. This is the final book in the Hetty Feather series, following: Hetty Feather, Hetty Feathers Christmas, Sapphire Battersea, Emerald Star and Diamond. Also starring: Bertie, Jem, Miss Gibson, Mrs Ruby, Samson and many more!
July 4, 2022
This is the fifth book of the Hetty Feather series, and needless to say, I also adored this book, and still do. If you remember Diamond from the last book, it's them spending their lives together, doing everything together, and the stories here are amazing. It's a great installation for the series.
March 8, 2020
I liked the book because it was very cool to experience life as a different person.
June 26, 2025
give jacqueline wilson the nobel prize for literature
January 10, 2022
Even though it is a kids book there are mature themes and is an all round good book.
October 12, 2022
When this was released I had read the first 3 but had grown out of Jacqueline Wilson books. Decided to reread them during a reading slump, and the ending is so perfect - hetty's story being complete now makes everything happy.
December 16, 2018
I JUST REREAD THIS AND OMG I FORGOT HOW AMAZING THIS SERIES IS
THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST SERIES' EVER
IT TAUGHT ME SO MUCH ABOUT VICTORIAN TIMES
JACQUELINE WILSON PLEASE WRITE MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES
I LOVE IT SO MUCH
THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST SERIES' EVER
IT TAUGHT ME SO MUCH ABOUT VICTORIAN TIMES
JACQUELINE WILSON PLEASE WRITE MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES
I LOVE IT SO MUCH
March 2, 2020
I read this book a while ago, I really did enjoy it! I loved Hetty and Diamond's dynamic together, and their act performing as the "Little Stars" act (hence the book title)
I did think some bits were very nitty gritty on the topic of Victorian London. I really liked how when something bad were to happen to Hetty/Diamond, you will generally feel saddened and sympathetic. I really liked how Hetty seemed to do a full circle, from the circus, to the music hall, to her foster home and in the end, living with Harry when she joins Marina Royal.
One thing I would change is how the fact that Jem's wedding is only about 5 pages long, I was really expecting it to be a key event in the story however, I also like that it wasn't more than 5 pages because it really showed Hetty growing up and becoming more independent without needing Jem.
Now, this is my favourite part of the book:
The return of Albert Briggs (Aka Bertie)
I really love Bertie as a character, I feel like he really made Hetty happier. He was still very flirty as he was in Sapphire Battersea but this time it felt like he really, really cared deeply for Hetty, aswell as Diamond. He was a very great and comical when performing his act as "Flirty Bertie". He was a very Dick Van Dyke esque character.
I really didn't like the Ivy Green/Bertie/Hetty thing. Ivy Green was (I believe) in her 30's or something, meanwhile Bertie was 15-16 (same age as Hetty). But then again, that is how people in the Victorian Era may have acted. Same with Samson Ruby and Hetty.
Miss Gibson was another lovely character, sometimes a bit stuck-up and rude though. She did keep Hetty and Diamond under her wing which was kind of her. I loved reading about Her picnics with Diamond, Hetty and Bertie.
When Hetty left her job at the music hall due to Samson Ruby, she became an actress with her new heroine: Marina Royal. At first, I didn't think Hetty becoming an actress was the right job, but I quickly realised that Hetty enjoyed it thoroughly, Diamond not so much, but she was still adorable.
Bertie seeks out to find Hetty as the role of Young David Copperfield. When she is giving autographs he simply says how he doesn't want Emerald Star, just simply Hetty Feather. He too also lost his job at the music hall, and he is going to move on to a new act, called the gappy chappy. I felt that Bertie was better for Hetty because he had the stardom life that Hetty wanted, but Jem had the country life she never showed any interest for.
I loved the ending so much! It felt perfect having Hetty, Diamond, Bertie, Harry and Madame Adeline all together. I was so joyful Hetty got her happy ending.
I did think some bits were very nitty gritty on the topic of Victorian London. I really liked how when something bad were to happen to Hetty/Diamond, you will generally feel saddened and sympathetic. I really liked how Hetty seemed to do a full circle, from the circus, to the music hall, to her foster home and in the end, living with Harry when she joins Marina Royal.
One thing I would change is how the fact that Jem's wedding is only about 5 pages long, I was really expecting it to be a key event in the story however, I also like that it wasn't more than 5 pages because it really showed Hetty growing up and becoming more independent without needing Jem.
Now, this is my favourite part of the book:
The return of Albert Briggs (Aka Bertie)
I really love Bertie as a character, I feel like he really made Hetty happier. He was still very flirty as he was in Sapphire Battersea but this time it felt like he really, really cared deeply for Hetty, aswell as Diamond. He was a very great and comical when performing his act as "Flirty Bertie". He was a very Dick Van Dyke esque character.
I really didn't like the Ivy Green/Bertie/Hetty thing. Ivy Green was (I believe) in her 30's or something, meanwhile Bertie was 15-16 (same age as Hetty). But then again, that is how people in the Victorian Era may have acted. Same with Samson Ruby and Hetty.
Miss Gibson was another lovely character, sometimes a bit stuck-up and rude though. She did keep Hetty and Diamond under her wing which was kind of her. I loved reading about Her picnics with Diamond, Hetty and Bertie.
When Hetty left her job at the music hall due to Samson Ruby, she became an actress with her new heroine: Marina Royal. At first, I didn't think Hetty becoming an actress was the right job, but I quickly realised that Hetty enjoyed it thoroughly, Diamond not so much, but she was still adorable.
Bertie seeks out to find Hetty as the role of Young David Copperfield. When she is giving autographs he simply says how he doesn't want Emerald Star, just simply Hetty Feather. He too also lost his job at the music hall, and he is going to move on to a new act, called the gappy chappy. I felt that Bertie was better for Hetty because he had the stardom life that Hetty wanted, but Jem had the country life she never showed any interest for.
I loved the ending so much! It felt perfect having Hetty, Diamond, Bertie, Harry and Madame Adeline all together. I was so joyful Hetty got her happy ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2018
really enjoyed this book a great ending to hettys story
June 23, 2021
Feel sad on two counts. 1) I’ve now finished the Hetty Feather series of 5 books, and 2) My 12 year old, who I was reading it with most nights at bedtime , says this is my last bedtime story 😭
Anyhow… here’s my review.
All the Hetty books are great but this is my second favourite (after the first and original) - the way it ties everything together from the previous books, how we meet again characters from the past and if we don’t meet them , they get a mention in Hettys memories. The relationship between Hetty and Diamond is so touching and you just know they will be together forever as sisters. I’m glad she met Bertie again and although I think she could do better, he’s certainly a better bet than sappy Jem!
This story also touches upon sexual abuse (Samson). Not in a direct way, but it’s there and it’s quite shocking. Wilson doesn’t shy away from this stuff.
My favourite character in this one (apart from Hetty!) was Miss Gibson. What a legend! I did think Hetty might end up settling with her and having a sewing career.
I also loved the Victorian era of the series… Wilson brings it to life in vivid detail and knowing her I am sure it is historically accurate. A history lesson too!
So Hetty is all grown up now (there’s a lot of kissing in this book!!) and so is my daughter. Sad 😞
Anyhow… here’s my review.
All the Hetty books are great but this is my second favourite (after the first and original) - the way it ties everything together from the previous books, how we meet again characters from the past and if we don’t meet them , they get a mention in Hettys memories. The relationship between Hetty and Diamond is so touching and you just know they will be together forever as sisters. I’m glad she met Bertie again and although I think she could do better, he’s certainly a better bet than sappy Jem!
This story also touches upon sexual abuse (Samson). Not in a direct way, but it’s there and it’s quite shocking. Wilson doesn’t shy away from this stuff.
My favourite character in this one (apart from Hetty!) was Miss Gibson. What a legend! I did think Hetty might end up settling with her and having a sewing career.
I also loved the Victorian era of the series… Wilson brings it to life in vivid detail and knowing her I am sure it is historically accurate. A history lesson too!
So Hetty is all grown up now (there’s a lot of kissing in this book!!) and so is my daughter. Sad 😞
January 4, 2019
I got this book as soon as it came out and I read it within a week, I think that showed my love for Hetty Feather
I greatly enjoyed this book, it is tied as my favorite with Emerald Star, but there are a few downsides to it
Some good points is that the story overall was great, Hetty going and performing at a musical hall was not what I expected, especially with poor Diamond but that is what Jacqueline Wilson gave us and I am not disappointed, it even gave Hetty and Bertie time to catch up again and see their relationship bloom again like it did in the second book, I liked the idea of Hetty and Bertie in the end getting together and while the ending of little star's seem to hint that they do I would still love to see more of it. One story that I think did not get much attention this time is the story of Jem. His wedding was kinda swept under the rug and I would of loved to of seen more interaction between him and Hetty. It's obvious that he still has feelings for Hetty and did not want to get married, instead wanting to run away with Hetty, but Hetty forces him to get married which makes an unhappy story for Jem, which I find sad as I really saw them having a chance. But what I want most of all is for Bertie and Jem to meet.
Bertie knows all about Jem, but Jem does not even know Bertie exists and I would love to see how they would react to each other if they meet which is why I hope Jacqueline Wilson will write another book on Hetty Feather, or have a follow up later on in life like she has done with Tracy Beaker!
Getting back to the story, it was really strong, the charcters were very intresting and once again it delt with some dark area's like that older guy Simon lurking around, teaching really a moral not to go near guys that creep you out!
I also found that Diamond got quite annoying in this book, I understand she is a child but she did get on my nerves a bit.
Overall it was very enjoyable and a pleasure to read, a good finishing point at this story but there is still a lot more Jacqueline could do and I hope she does!
I greatly enjoyed this book, it is tied as my favorite with Emerald Star, but there are a few downsides to it
Some good points is that the story overall was great, Hetty going and performing at a musical hall was not what I expected, especially with poor Diamond but that is what Jacqueline Wilson gave us and I am not disappointed, it even gave Hetty and Bertie time to catch up again and see their relationship bloom again like it did in the second book, I liked the idea of Hetty and Bertie in the end getting together and while the ending of little star's seem to hint that they do I would still love to see more of it. One story that I think did not get much attention this time is the story of Jem. His wedding was kinda swept under the rug and I would of loved to of seen more interaction between him and Hetty. It's obvious that he still has feelings for Hetty and did not want to get married, instead wanting to run away with Hetty, but Hetty forces him to get married which makes an unhappy story for Jem, which I find sad as I really saw them having a chance. But what I want most of all is for Bertie and Jem to meet.
Bertie knows all about Jem, but Jem does not even know Bertie exists and I would love to see how they would react to each other if they meet which is why I hope Jacqueline Wilson will write another book on Hetty Feather, or have a follow up later on in life like she has done with Tracy Beaker!
Getting back to the story, it was really strong, the charcters were very intresting and once again it delt with some dark area's like that older guy Simon lurking around, teaching really a moral not to go near guys that creep you out!
I also found that Diamond got quite annoying in this book, I understand she is a child but she did get on my nerves a bit.
Overall it was very enjoyable and a pleasure to read, a good finishing point at this story but there is still a lot more Jacqueline could do and I hope she does!
July 11, 2019
I just love this entire series, I've read plenty of books, but this is by far one of my favourite series. Although it's aimed at children, I believe anyone can thoroughly enjoy it.
The characters are so developed throughout this entire series, and we really get to see Hetty evolve from a child into a young adult, and witness how she's constantly searching for direction. She's fierce, ambitious and driven. I love how her new profession, acting, inspired by Marina Royal falls in line with one of her greatest talents from the very first book - imagining. Becoming a completely different person.
The Victorian era is also fleshed out throughout, and Jacqueline gives you multiple glimpses in varying locations. You connect with these characters, and I know there's a special place for Hetty in my heart.
I love how we get to visit old characters and see where they are and what they are doing (although some characters don't have happy endings). I also love the developing relationship between Bertie and Hetty, and the brilliant lack of 'instalove'. MY only problem, is that how Bertie is selfless and willing to give up everything he has for Hetty, Hetty isn't willing to give him the same sentiment. She's selfish, and sometimes blind to the dangers of situations.
I guess both of these traits however do fall in line with her upbringing, how she's had to act selfishly to survive. She is also young, so she doesn't understand every situation as well, but I feel these two traits are in conflict with each other, as one implies she's wise to the dangers but the other not.
I do love the ending though, there's some closure to it, but there's also an element of surprise as if Hetty's future is never set in stone.
The characters are so developed throughout this entire series, and we really get to see Hetty evolve from a child into a young adult, and witness how she's constantly searching for direction. She's fierce, ambitious and driven. I love how her new profession, acting, inspired by Marina Royal falls in line with one of her greatest talents from the very first book - imagining. Becoming a completely different person.
The Victorian era is also fleshed out throughout, and Jacqueline gives you multiple glimpses in varying locations. You connect with these characters, and I know there's a special place for Hetty in my heart.
I love how we get to visit old characters and see where they are and what they are doing (although some characters don't have happy endings). I also love the developing relationship between Bertie and Hetty, and the brilliant lack of 'instalove'. MY only problem, is that how Bertie is selfless and willing to give up everything he has for Hetty, Hetty isn't willing to give him the same sentiment. She's selfish, and sometimes blind to the dangers of situations.
I guess both of these traits however do fall in line with her upbringing, how she's had to act selfishly to survive. She is also young, so she doesn't understand every situation as well, but I feel these two traits are in conflict with each other, as one implies she's wise to the dangers but the other not.
I do love the ending though, there's some closure to it, but there's also an element of surprise as if Hetty's future is never set in stone.
April 20, 2020
Seeing as this is the last book in the series (for now, I really hope we get more) I thought I would review the series as a whole instead of just the individual book. I absouloutly love this series, I loved it the first time I ever read it (this was a re-read) and I managed to force a few friends to read it too. Even though I've read this before the last three books felt new to me as I couldn't remember a thing that happened - even when I was reading it so it felt like I was reading it for the first time. Also, I know this is already 5 books long but we neeeeedddd another book as we need to know what happens - ahh I can't say anything because I might spoil it but I know there is potential for another book. Jaqueline Wilson is such a great writer, she's very easy to read and is great at storytelling. I feel like Jaqueline Wilson could write a book about a character just sitting in a chair doing nothing and I would still read it. Anyway I love this series so much and now I don't want to read any other books as I just want more books about Hetty. Overall I give this whole series 5 stars but I would give some of the other books 4 stars. Emerald Star was definitely my least favourite (But I did really like Lizzie's character which made up for the fact the rest of it was a bit rubbish) I love Sapphire Battersea and I love Little Stars but It's hard to have a favourite as it's really just one massive book. Anyway, 5 stars for this book and the whole series.
August 26, 2021
I surprisingly managed to read this book in a single day - a first ever to read a book in a single day, and it wasn't a terrible experience If I can say.
The book was average, it wasn't something that will stick with me - unlike the rest of this series which I adore and will stand my favourite series from as a child, which I did absolutely relish when reading them. However lots of the time I felt it was rather uneventful, however still a somewhat enjoyable read.
The book was average, it wasn't something that will stick with me - unlike the rest of this series which I adore and will stand my favourite series from as a child, which I did absolutely relish when reading them. However lots of the time I felt it was rather uneventful, however still a somewhat enjoyable read.
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