Each year I grow to love and appreciate hens more.. they are magnificent little creatures... Even though their beauty is not as flashy as the rooster they are very beautiful in deed. I love the devotedness to their eggs and their baby chicks.. They can also be very good pets and so many of mine will call out to me to stop and pick them up.. They love for me to take a little time out and hold them in the swing or while I watch the news... some will follow me and a couple will fly up on my shoulder while I do chores... Each and everyone has such a unique personality.. They grieve when anything happens to their babies or someone in the poultry family. If a person pays close attention they will be amazed at the complex social structure of the hens as well as the roosters.. Chickens are wonderful pets.. 
The most difficult part is keeping them safe as they are vulnerable to so many predators. Shelter to keep them safe, always clean water and a good variety of food and greens.. Give them some love and respect, you could not ask for a better pet.