The Forbidden Room; Or, "Mine Answer was My Deed"

"The Forbidden Room; Or, 'Mine Answer was My Deed'" by Phoebe Allen is a novel about the adventures of children spending the summer at Gaybrook Farm. This story, set in the countryside, follows youngsters like the shy Gaston Delzant and a group of cousins as they navigate the ups and downs of friendship and try to fit in. The book begins with the farm buzzing with activity as everyone gets ready for the summer visitors, especially the children, emphasizing Gaston's worry about potential teasing. As the guests arrive, we meet various characters, each with their own unique personality, like Andrew, who comes across as brave, and Gaston, who seems more soft-tempered. The novel uses these characters to explore themes of innocence and acceptance.