November 15, 2024
An illustrated guide to planning delicious, craft-filled parties. Featuring 10 popular party themes, from dinosaurs to superheroes, fairies to pirates, each section of the book includes a cake, a main, side dishes, party crafts and favors, and decor for a festive atmosphere. Party planners are encouraged to mix and match, adding and adapting material from different sections to best fit their needs, and to design their own unique experiences. Modifications help meet the varied ages and skill levels of the party guests. Many recipes are made more accessible by using readily available, pre-made ingredients. Some recipes can be prepped and then finished by party guests. Most activities and recipes are simple, with just a few items and instructions, although a handful have longer lists of materials and more intricate steps. The whimsical illustrations and color photographs appear visually enticing and refreshingly realistic rather than Pinterest-perfect. Illustrated characters match each section's theme, and the humans appear racially diverse. Iwai provides further guidance in the form of tips, techniques, common tools and equipment, and workarounds to save time or help avoid the need to buy specialized items. Templates and additional content are available for download on the author's website. A friendly guide to inspire kids and help adults craft memorable parties. (additional activities, index)(Nonfiction. 5-adult)
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January 1, 2025
Grades 1-4 Geisel Honoree Iwai turns from picture books to parties in this delightful DIY guide. From a construction-site party to a woodland-fairy fest to a Hawaiian luau, 10 thematic children's parties are featured with step-by-step instructions accompanied by colorful visual guides and photographs for making decorations, food, and crafts. Readers will appreciate the realistic photographed outcomes rather than staged perfection, as well as the expansive range of party themes. Adaptability is also emphasized. Want to use the star wands from the royal magic kingdom party at the superheroes party? Go for it! What really makes the party ideas accessible, however, is the author's extensive support material. Before browsing the party ideas, readers receive tips on useful craft tools and cooking equipment to have on hand, crafting and cooking techniques, and general safety considerations. Top-notch back matter offers basic cake and frosting recipes to incorporate with any party, reproducible party planning guides, and craft templates that correspond to the themes. A perfect blend of thoughtfulness and whimsy.
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