Party Time!.. Birthday Planning Books

Yes, reserving time at the roller rink for a birthday party is EASY. But if you have some extra energy, a DIY party is oh-so-much-more exciting for your child. Need some ideas? Read on.

Make it in Minutes: Party Favors & Hostess Gifts

by Roxi Phillips (Lark Books). 40 beautiful projects that cover many different crafting ideas are laid out with well illustrated instructions. A whole chapter is dedicated to children’s party favors, but nearly all of the ideas could be appropriate for kids. (Non-fiction, All Ages)

The Big One-Oh by Dean Pitchford (Penguin).

Charley, about to turn 10, has never been one to have a big birthday party. He decides to have the best party in the history of the world! Charley is a Monsters and Maniacs Magazine fan, so of course, that is the theme. What ensues is hilarity and mayhem, coupled with the reality of the social pressures and anxieties of 10-year-old boys. (Fiction, 8 and up)

Princess Tea: Parties and Treats for Little Girls

by Janeen A. Sarlin (Chronicle). The art of tea needs to be cultivated at a young age. This new title is sure to light the inner Martha Stewart fire in little girls, their mommies or their grandmothers. Have you been to an Underwater Princess Tea Party? Better check this out. (Non-fiction, All Ages)

Wookiee Cookies: A Star Wars Cookbook

by Robin Davis, Frankie Frankeny (Chronicle). Boys love to cook. It is messy, it can be really funny and it is oh so yummy! This book is a hoot, with ideas like Obi-wan Kebobs and Jedi Juice Bars. You will find people of all ages curled up with this book, laughing to themselves at the pictures and the names of all the recipes. Clean off the action figures and Lego people and away you go! (Non-fiction, All Ages)

Snooze-a-Palooza! More than 100 Slumber Party Ideas

edited by Sara Hunt, illus by Carol Yoshizumi (American Girl Publishing). For the very brave, this book is loaded with ideas for everything from invitations to breakfast! Ideas include “Spa Night,” a scrapbooking party and chocolate! With a total of eight themes and accompanying activities from which to choose, you are sure to find something new. (Non-fiction, 8 and up)

Julie Hubble lives in Leawood and survived just recently survived The Messy Birthday Party theme.