The Unfamous Diaries of Daisy Brewster: The Drama Queens

This is the second book in the Daisy Brewster series and it is just as good as the first one.  The diary format works well here and helps move the story on, interspersed with witty remarks, funny drawings and doodles along the way.

It is the start of a new term and Daisy is particularly happy to be back at her drama club where she does not have to put up with her annoying superstar cousin Maxxy, who seems to be ruling the roost at home and is a bit of a diva.  Maxxy has been deposited in the family from the US as she has a new starring role in a TV show.  Daisy now shares a room with her plus her smelly emotional-support dog and has to listen to constant complaints from the weather to the small size of their house. 

Daisy has a starring role in Bugsy Malone which will be the club’s new production for its 10th Anniversary and is determined to give her best performance.  Of course, there are hiccups along the way. The cast are more interested in Maxxy than practising their roles, although Daisy’s two best friends remain loyal and do not constantly ask her questions about her cousin. But there is also her co-star, Olivier who helps her with her script but seems to send Daisy all of a flutter whenever he is around.                                         

Along the way Daisy learns that Maxxy is not quite all she seems on the surface and might have difficulties of her own to deal with.  Maxxy even gives Daisy helpful acting tips and helps her learn her lines.  Maxxy also miraculously saves the show at the end and Daisy is forced to revise her opinions of her cousin.

This light and refreshing story says more about family relationships and the ups and down of friendships than performing and is told with all of Jenny Valentine’s trademark wry humour and wit.