It’s a hard life for the hens at their chicken farm, in the crowded cages, and one little hen becomes too tired to lay even one more egg.

But then – “We’ll take care of you, little hen. We’re taking you home with us!” What a difference!

Now there’s grass, worms, bugs, puddles, friends and – FREEDOM. The little hen is given a name – Gwen – and a rainbow coloured vest to keep her warm while her feathers grow back.

Little Gwen is so happy in her new home, and one day she gives everyone a wonderful surprise….

This delightful picture book with captivating illustrations is a perfect, gentle introduction to animal rights and well-being.

"A little hen finds herself living a life of space, grass, worms and friendship in this sweet story about animal care and animal rights."

"The expressive and realistic analogue depiction of children and animals brings this picture book warmly to life."

"With gentle storytelling and warm illustrations . Carol Thompson introduces 3 year olds to animal welfare, showing how a little care can make all the difference. It’s a charming story to read aloud."

"It's wonderful that a book like this will lead to curiosity for rescue hens and hopefully other animals, their basic care and needs, while instilling compassion towards those without a voice...I particularly liked the inclusion of the back page which leans into the topic of the 5 freedoms of animal welfare."

Carol Thompson is one of Britain’s leading illustrators, with an international following and especially admired for her expressive yet realistic depiction of children and animals. Following a degree in Fashion and Printed Textiles from De Montfort University, she opted to become a freelance illustrator and designer. Her many picture books and board books for young children have been published all over the world. For Otter-Barry Books, she has illustrated Dianne Hofmeyr’s My Daddy is a Silly Monkey and Storm Dragon. Carol is a committee member of IBBY (UK), with a particular involvement in the IBBY Disability List. She lives near Leicester, UK.