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Cupcake Cousins #1
Cupcake Cousins
Baking a fluffy pink cupcake is awesome, but wearing a dress that looks like one? No, thank you!
Cousins Willow and Delia can't wait to spend a week vacationing together with their families. Their aunt is getting married, and Willow and Delia are hoping their tasty baked goods will be enough to get them out of being flower girls in the wedding.
But with a mischievous little brother, a bacon-loving dog, and a misbehaving blender in the mix, their treats don't exactly turn out as planned. When a real emergency threatens to ruin the wedding, will their baking skills be enough to save the day?
Join Willow and Delia in the kitchen by following their scrumptious recipes for whoopee pies, peach pancakes, and other tasty treats!
288 pages, Hardcover
First published May 13, 2014
25 people are currently reading
930 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
March 28, 2014
So, clearly, I have a thing for middle-grade foodie books. But this book also holds a special place in my heart thanks to the cousins' relationship. When I was about the same age as Willow and Delia, I spent a week in the summer with my own cousin, and in fact I'm pretty sure that that week featured our earliest culinary experiments. I remember the two of us calling up the Duncan Hines hotline (no Internet back then!) to ask how much peanut butter we should add to their cookie mix to make chocolate chip-peanut butter cookies. (And I even still remember the answer--1/3 of a cup!)
But I digress. Whether or not you have your own personal fond memories of cooking with a cousin, this book is lovely. Yes, the girls spend time together in the kitchen, but the story is much wider in scope, touching on both light and heavier family and community issues such as divorce and job loss. And, of course, embracing your passions and finding your place in a big family. There's also plenty of action, humor, and hijinks, and absolutely adorable illustrations. Middle-grade readers will devour this book.
But I digress. Whether or not you have your own personal fond memories of cooking with a cousin, this book is lovely. Yes, the girls spend time together in the kitchen, but the story is much wider in scope, touching on both light and heavier family and community issues such as divorce and job loss. And, of course, embracing your passions and finding your place in a big family. There's also plenty of action, humor, and hijinks, and absolutely adorable illustrations. Middle-grade readers will devour this book.
May 1, 2014
“Cupcake cousins” was a wonderful tale of the strength of the bond of friendship and family. My daughter and I read a chapter or so together each night before bed and she loved it. It was full of funny situations, lots of family drama, and two girls who thought they were chefs…definitely not flower girls!
The fact that it had pictures in it was a plus. Even though she is old enough to read chapter books without illustrations, she was excited to see them in “Cupcake Cousins.” Another thing she really liked was the recipes that were included. She thought that was “Really cool.”
The book was well thought out, well written for the age and demographic it was reaching for, and the pacing was on point. There was a moral/life lesson in the story, but it wasn’t so obvious that a child would dump the book because s/he felt brow beaten. Finally, it kept my daughter’s attention and I often had to force her to stop reading at night and go to bed.
Bottom line: Wonderful chapter book that kept my daughter’s attention (and, yes, I enjoyed it too). Funny and poignant at the same time. I would definitely recommend it to other mothers.
The fact that it had pictures in it was a plus. Even though she is old enough to read chapter books without illustrations, she was excited to see them in “Cupcake Cousins.” Another thing she really liked was the recipes that were included. She thought that was “Really cool.”
The book was well thought out, well written for the age and demographic it was reaching for, and the pacing was on point. There was a moral/life lesson in the story, but it wasn’t so obvious that a child would dump the book because s/he felt brow beaten. Finally, it kept my daughter’s attention and I often had to force her to stop reading at night and go to bed.
Bottom line: Wonderful chapter book that kept my daughter’s attention (and, yes, I enjoyed it too). Funny and poignant at the same time. I would definitely recommend it to other mothers.
May 13, 2014
Title: Cupcake Cousins
Author: Kate Hannigan
Target: Grades 2-5
Series: Not at this point, but I could see more adventures for Willow and Delia
What this book is about:
Cousins Willow and Delia meet up every year at a summer beach house on Lake Michigan. This year there is added excitement because their Aunt Rose is getting married at the house. The cousins have been assigned the task of flower girls. Now, they feel that as fourth graders, they may be a bit too old to be flower girls and don’t get them started on the bright bubble gum pink dresses they will have to wear.
In an effort to get their Aunt Rose to see them as more mature and assign them a new wedding task, they take on the challenge of trying to get her to let them bake cupcakes for the wedding. However, their kitchen exploits turn out less than stellar and may even set them back in their pursuit.
Why I love this book:
First off, I love the cousin relationship between Willow and Delia. There is just something special about a friendship with cousins - like a sister only better. Their relationship felt quite real and just like the times I get together with my cousins.
I also loved that Delia comes from a mixed race family and it is not an issue in the slightest. My daughter is surrounded in school and home by a mix of ethnicities and it is nice to see that reflected in the books she reads. I appreciate that Hannigan colored the landscape.
My favorite part of the book, however, was that it felt like fun innocence without being old fashioned or stuffy. These girls are real fourth graders - they have adventures, make mistakes and act silly, just like my daughter.
If I have on criticism of the book, it is more a missed opportunity. There are plenty of cupcake books with girls baking their hearts out (and strangely these cousins never do bake cupcakes). Books with recipes included are a dime a dozen and the name and format of this book will put is solidly in the camp with those myriad of books. However, in this book each girl (and boy) is named after a flower. (Did you notice - Rose, Delia, Willow) It would have been quite fun to have explanations on the characteristics of each flower name between chapters, as opposed to more recipes A different angle to set this book apart because it really is a delightful read.
Who this book is for:
This book reminded me quite a bit of Lulu and the Dog from the Sea, which was a Cybils finalist. Perhaps it was the family vacation at the beach, cousins together with a lovable dog and the innocence of the story. They are not identical, but do have a similar vibe. I also was reminded of The Penderwicks in tone, and when I read the author’s web page, it proved to be one of her influences, which did not surprise me in the slightest. If your child liked either of these two books, this one will be a hit.
The book is an early chapter book for those kids who are starting to become more confident chapter book readers. This is not for kids just starting chapter books.
Final thoughts:
This book will ensure kids have lovely adventures to read about that simply make them smile and giggle.
I received a copy of this book free of charge from NetGalley with no requirements for a positive review
Author: Kate Hannigan
Target: Grades 2-5
Series: Not at this point, but I could see more adventures for Willow and Delia
What this book is about:
Cousins Willow and Delia meet up every year at a summer beach house on Lake Michigan. This year there is added excitement because their Aunt Rose is getting married at the house. The cousins have been assigned the task of flower girls. Now, they feel that as fourth graders, they may be a bit too old to be flower girls and don’t get them started on the bright bubble gum pink dresses they will have to wear.
In an effort to get their Aunt Rose to see them as more mature and assign them a new wedding task, they take on the challenge of trying to get her to let them bake cupcakes for the wedding. However, their kitchen exploits turn out less than stellar and may even set them back in their pursuit.
Why I love this book:
First off, I love the cousin relationship between Willow and Delia. There is just something special about a friendship with cousins - like a sister only better. Their relationship felt quite real and just like the times I get together with my cousins.
I also loved that Delia comes from a mixed race family and it is not an issue in the slightest. My daughter is surrounded in school and home by a mix of ethnicities and it is nice to see that reflected in the books she reads. I appreciate that Hannigan colored the landscape.
My favorite part of the book, however, was that it felt like fun innocence without being old fashioned or stuffy. These girls are real fourth graders - they have adventures, make mistakes and act silly, just like my daughter.
If I have on criticism of the book, it is more a missed opportunity. There are plenty of cupcake books with girls baking their hearts out (and strangely these cousins never do bake cupcakes). Books with recipes included are a dime a dozen and the name and format of this book will put is solidly in the camp with those myriad of books. However, in this book each girl (and boy) is named after a flower. (Did you notice - Rose, Delia, Willow) It would have been quite fun to have explanations on the characteristics of each flower name between chapters, as opposed to more recipes A different angle to set this book apart because it really is a delightful read.
Who this book is for:
This book reminded me quite a bit of Lulu and the Dog from the Sea, which was a Cybils finalist. Perhaps it was the family vacation at the beach, cousins together with a lovable dog and the innocence of the story. They are not identical, but do have a similar vibe. I also was reminded of The Penderwicks in tone, and when I read the author’s web page, it proved to be one of her influences, which did not surprise me in the slightest. If your child liked either of these two books, this one will be a hit.
The book is an early chapter book for those kids who are starting to become more confident chapter book readers. This is not for kids just starting chapter books.
Final thoughts:
This book will ensure kids have lovely adventures to read about that simply make them smile and giggle.
I received a copy of this book free of charge from NetGalley with no requirements for a positive review
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September 9, 2016A sweet summer adventure about empathy and caring for others, CUPCAKE COUSINS teaches its lesson with gentleness and good humor.
July 26, 2016
This book made me want to eat cupcakes. I therefore give it 10 stars! 5 stars is not enough.
April 13, 2014
Willow and her cousin Delia are fourth-graders. They both believe they are too old to be flower girls for their aunt's wedding, especially since they have to wear bubblegum pink dresses that they hate. (I can't blame them. At least when I was a flower girl I wore an icy blue dress.) What they really want to do is help to make the food for the wedding reception. But when they arrive at the vacation house where their families are staying for the week, everything begins to go wrong. The owner of the house has hired a chef to do the cooking; the girls keep trying to help her, but disaster strikes every time. Added to that, Willow's little brother, Sweet William, collects wild animals and brings them in the house as pets, their dog eats some of the appetizers for the big day, everyone keeps telling them how ADORABLE they will look in the awful dresses, and someone is stealing veggies from the garden. What else will happen? (I can't really tell you without ruining the ending.)
The characters are so amusing, especially Grandpa with his flower jokes and Sweet William who misunderstands and mispronounces everything. For instance, William practices growling because he is going to be the "ring bear" in the wedding (rather than ring bearer). Besides the drama of the wedding and the hideous dresses, there are also snotty older sisters to deal with, Delia's dad has lost his job due to budget cutbacks, and the new chef may have to sell her family's home if she can't get her catering business off the ground. There's plenty of action all packed into one week's vacation.
Readers who enjoy stories about best friends like Ivy + Bean should feel right at home with Willow and Delia. And anyone who is an aspiring cook will enjoy the recipes that are included for each of the girls' kitchen projects.
I read an e-book provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
The characters are so amusing, especially Grandpa with his flower jokes and Sweet William who misunderstands and mispronounces everything. For instance, William practices growling because he is going to be the "ring bear" in the wedding (rather than ring bearer). Besides the drama of the wedding and the hideous dresses, there are also snotty older sisters to deal with, Delia's dad has lost his job due to budget cutbacks, and the new chef may have to sell her family's home if she can't get her catering business off the ground. There's plenty of action all packed into one week's vacation.
Readers who enjoy stories about best friends like Ivy + Bean should feel right at home with Willow and Delia. And anyone who is an aspiring cook will enjoy the recipes that are included for each of the girls' kitchen projects.
I read an e-book provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
June 9, 2014
* review copy received for an honest review*
This review originally appeared on www.bookishserendipity.com
I love middle grade, but I don’t usually read the books targeted towards the younger end of the spectrum anymore. Still, I definitely wanted to review this one because I thought it looked adorable. And it is!
Willow and Delia are such fun characters! The situations they manage to get themselves into can be very entertaining,and frequent enough to make a great story. Their voices were true to their ages as well, and I believe that’s a very important element in a successful middle grade novel! I remember when I was 7/8 years old and everything seemed like a big deal, just like how Willow fusses over having to wear a pink bridesmaid dress.
I loved the themes in Cupcake Cousins. While many of the issues are lighter, this novel also deals with relatable topics like divorce. I also enjoyed that it was more multicultural, more like our world today. Delia and her family are African-American, while Willow is white.
For kids who like baking, there are easy-to-make recipes scattered throughout the novel. I loved them! I am not a very good chef (seriously, if you let me into your kitchen alone, you’d better have good insurance!) but I would love to try some of these treats. Particularly the cupcakes… *licks lips* I love food.
To sum it all up, I really enjoyed this novel. It was honest, humorous and sweet—three things I know middle grade readers love. It actually reminded me of the Ivy and Bean series I loved when I was younger. I am giving Cupcake Cousins 4 stars! If you know any kids (ages 7-10) who might enjoy this, I recommend buying it for them!
This review originally appeared on www.bookishserendipity.com
I love middle grade, but I don’t usually read the books targeted towards the younger end of the spectrum anymore. Still, I definitely wanted to review this one because I thought it looked adorable. And it is!
Willow and Delia are such fun characters! The situations they manage to get themselves into can be very entertaining,and frequent enough to make a great story. Their voices were true to their ages as well, and I believe that’s a very important element in a successful middle grade novel! I remember when I was 7/8 years old and everything seemed like a big deal, just like how Willow fusses over having to wear a pink bridesmaid dress.
I loved the themes in Cupcake Cousins. While many of the issues are lighter, this novel also deals with relatable topics like divorce. I also enjoyed that it was more multicultural, more like our world today. Delia and her family are African-American, while Willow is white.
For kids who like baking, there are easy-to-make recipes scattered throughout the novel. I loved them! I am not a very good chef (seriously, if you let me into your kitchen alone, you’d better have good insurance!) but I would love to try some of these treats. Particularly the cupcakes… *licks lips* I love food.
To sum it all up, I really enjoyed this novel. It was honest, humorous and sweet—three things I know middle grade readers love. It actually reminded me of the Ivy and Bean series I loved when I was younger. I am giving Cupcake Cousins 4 stars! If you know any kids (ages 7-10) who might enjoy this, I recommend buying it for them!
August 31, 2016
Well, I do love me some recipe books, especially if the come with a wonderful story on the side.
Cupcake Cousins was a fun book at just the right time, with summer round the corner. Basically, if you want a good children's book with family dynamics, shenanigans and mouth-watering recipes, you should look no further.
I loved the attention given to the familial relations, also the inclusion of slightly heavier topics like divorce. Willow and Delia's antagonism toward the pink dresses and older sisters was believable and so goddamn adorable. Because, believe me you, I *still* engage in that.
Anywho, all the shenanigans throughout the story were haertwarming, especially the dog. I did feel bad about Cat(but only a tadsy bit), and the ending was a bit of a let down, a little anticlimatic. The rumbles and tumbles of this book are my second favorite aspect because obviously the best is:
recipes! recipes! recipes!
whoopee pies, peach pancakes, and other tasty treats!
(I feel like there could be a chant in there somewhere.)
Thank you Disney Book Group!
Cupcake Cousins was a fun book at just the right time, with summer round the corner. Basically, if you want a good children's book with family dynamics, shenanigans and mouth-watering recipes, you should look no further.
I loved the attention given to the familial relations, also the inclusion of slightly heavier topics like divorce. Willow and Delia's antagonism toward the pink dresses and older sisters was believable and so goddamn adorable. Because, believe me you, I *still* engage in that.
Anywho, all the shenanigans throughout the story were haertwarming, especially the dog. I did feel bad about Cat(but only a tadsy bit), and the ending was a bit of a let down, a little anticlimatic. The rumbles and tumbles of this book are my second favorite aspect because obviously the best is:
recipes! recipes! recipes!
whoopee pies, peach pancakes, and other tasty treats!
(I feel like there could be a chant in there somewhere.)
Thank you Disney Book Group!
May 19, 2014
I thought this was a good book in the "friends" category for younger chapter book readers with an added bonus for those girls who like to cook! I think the author perfectly captures that somewhat awkward time where you are too old to be a flower girl but too young yet to be a junior bridesmaid--(cousins Willow and Delia's problem from the start of the book.) And also how because of their age (4th grade) they sometimes mess things up even though they start out with the best of intentions. This book includes recipes for some of the things they bake in there, so it has built-in extension activities.
Even though they have problems, including big sisters who think they are so great, one parent's job loss, a younger brother who collects animals (and brings them in the house!,) Willow and Delia have a lot of fun on their families annual vacation week in Saugatuck, MI.
Even though they have problems, including big sisters who think they are so great, one parent's job loss, a younger brother who collects animals (and brings them in the house!,) Willow and Delia have a lot of fun on their families annual vacation week in Saugatuck, MI.
May 15, 2015
http://noranydroptoread.com/2015/05/1...
Cousins Willow and Delia are fourth-graders, too old to be flower girls. Unfortunately, Aunt Rose sees things differently, and has chosen poofy pink dresses the girls hate. In an attempt to get assigned a different job in the wedding, they bake their little hearts out.
Lilah and I both enjoyed this one, including the dessert recipes included. The girls are good-natured and they work together well. The family interactions are a lot of fun, and serious issues like job loss are touched on, but not in a heavy-handed way. Their creative approach to solving the "problem" of being flower girls makes for some funny moments.
Source disclosure: I received an e-galley of this title courtesy of the publisher.
Cousins Willow and Delia are fourth-graders, too old to be flower girls. Unfortunately, Aunt Rose sees things differently, and has chosen poofy pink dresses the girls hate. In an attempt to get assigned a different job in the wedding, they bake their little hearts out.
Lilah and I both enjoyed this one, including the dessert recipes included. The girls are good-natured and they work together well. The family interactions are a lot of fun, and serious issues like job loss are touched on, but not in a heavy-handed way. Their creative approach to solving the "problem" of being flower girls makes for some funny moments.
Source disclosure: I received an e-galley of this title courtesy of the publisher.
May 23, 2014
This book was written for the upper elementary crowd. I think it can still be enjoyed by a first grader but would say it is more for the 3rd or 4th grade crowd. I gave this book 5/5 stars. I thought the story was entertaining and would keep any child interested. I liked that the characters learned a few lessons in the story but the lessons weren’t so in your face that you couldn’t just enjoy the story for being a story. I liked the simple conversations and would definitely recommend this book!
I would like to thank the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
I would like to thank the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
May 1, 2014
The softly simmered summer adventures of cousins Willow and Delia will resonate with younger middle grade readers who dream big! The girls work hard to escape their hated flower girl fate, and trade in their ugly dresses for wooden spoons and cooking glory. By turns, they enjoy the sweet pleasure of a summer week with a beloved cousin, and the challenge of managing personal disasters large and small, as well as family tensions. If you read this out loud to your kids, expect requests to embark upon cooking projects. Immediately!
March 27, 2014
This is a cute story about two girls who try their absolute best to get out of being flower girls for their aunt's upcoming wedding. They feel they are too old to be flower girls and want to be a bigger part of the wedding like maybe the chefs! LOL
It's a hilarious story because the harder the girls try to prove how they should be able to cook for the wedding instead of being flower girls the more messes they get into!
Really cute and has some awesome recipes included!
It's a hilarious story because the harder the girls try to prove how they should be able to cook for the wedding instead of being flower girls the more messes they get into!
Really cute and has some awesome recipes included!
April 27, 2014
This was such a sweet (pun intended) early middle grade. My daughter is reading it too and she's adoring it! I loved all the mishaps the girls got into despite their best intentions (a bit reminiscent of Ramona in this respect) and having the setting be a wedding where all the grown-ups were distracted was perfect. PLUS the book included tons of kid-friendly recipes which I have a feeling said daughter will be begging for shortly!
July 29, 2015
Fourth-grade cousins Willow and Delia are thrilled to be headed to Michigan for their aunt's wedding. They are not-so-thrilled to be thought young enough to flower girls. Bubble-gum pink dress wearing flower girls! The girls have have plans to convince their aunt that they are better suited in the kitchen and not walking down the aisle, if nothing else goes wrong that is. Hannigan has written a simple, easy to read story that will make readers want to go bake a cake, or at least a cupcake.
May 7, 2014
Okay, adding my own book to my shelf. SImply because this entire experience was so fun and a dream come true. Can't wait to work on Books 2 and 3.
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July 27, 2014Such a cute, sweet book with a fantastic combination of great illustrations, yummy-sounding recipes, a range of humor from intentionally cheesy to actual laugh-out-loud, and racial diversity.
July 21, 2017
268 pages. A girl named Willow, a fourth grader, is asked to be in her Aunt Rosie's wedding. They head to the wedding destination in Michigan. There are recipes at the end of some chapters. It is an ok story but not that exciting. I would skip this one. It is on a grade 4-6 reading level.
July 1, 2017
DNF @ p. 146. Cute idea but never really went anywhere. Plus, the whole premise is that the 4th grade girls don't want to wear a pink dress in their aunt's wedding. Seems whiny.
June 1, 2023
This is a great book for any girl who likes reading and/or cooking.
May 16, 2014
Willow has found a new enemy – the frilly bubble gum pink flower girl dress she’s supposed to wear at her Aunt Rosie’s wedding. Usually Willow can’t wait to get to her families’ summer vacation spot on the shore at Lake Michigan, but this year she is distracted by the pink poofy mess of a dress. Willow is looking forward to seeing her favorite cousin, Delia (the other flower girl in the wedding) though. Delia is as horrified by the dress as Willow is, but they can’t hurt Aunt Rosie’s feelings and tell her they don’t want to wear the dresses (after all they are too old to be flower girls!). They hatch a plan to wow Aunt Rosie with their baked goods so Aunt Rosie will want them in the kitchen during the wedding and not in the horrible dresses.
Willow soon finds that her troubles are more than a dress. The summer houses’ new cook has thrown the girls out of the kitchen, Delia’s father has lost his job and her parents aren’t getting along, and she keeps getting blamed for the trouble her little brother gets into. Put all that along with a couple of snooty older sisters making the girls feel bad about themselves and Willow isn’t sure how to save this summer.
What I thought – This book has an awesome first line –
“Willow scowled at the flower-girl dress like it was growing in a patch of poison ivy.”
This story is about a lot more than just a girl trying to get out of wearing an ugly dress (I don’t think I would have liked this book so much if it was). The story is about all the things kids have to deal with in everyday life-like getting into trouble for doing something you didn’t mean to do or didn’t do, or siblings who you don’t really get along with. or parents not getting along. What is nice is that Ms. Hannigan writes about all the difficult stuff in families but shows how much the family cares about each other too. There is even a little mystery thrown into the story having to do with a rickety old house next door. I thought Ms. Hannigan’s writing style flowed well and she wrote about very believable characters. It was nice that Ms. Hannigan included Delia’s family as being multicultural. Willow was a great main character who you really care about. Willow’s little brother’s (and his big dog’s) trouble-making added some humor to the story (and I always like humor). There are very nice pencil sketches throughout the book (a few in each chapter) by Ms. Hughes that went well with the story. There are also all kinds of recipes scattered in the book (if the chapter dealt with the girls making something – there is a recipe for it). That will be fun to try some of them out. At 288 pages the book gives a young advanced reader a great story to get involved in. I think older kids will enjoy learning about this family too.
*NOTE I got an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Willow soon finds that her troubles are more than a dress. The summer houses’ new cook has thrown the girls out of the kitchen, Delia’s father has lost his job and her parents aren’t getting along, and she keeps getting blamed for the trouble her little brother gets into. Put all that along with a couple of snooty older sisters making the girls feel bad about themselves and Willow isn’t sure how to save this summer.
What I thought – This book has an awesome first line –
“Willow scowled at the flower-girl dress like it was growing in a patch of poison ivy.”
This story is about a lot more than just a girl trying to get out of wearing an ugly dress (I don’t think I would have liked this book so much if it was). The story is about all the things kids have to deal with in everyday life-like getting into trouble for doing something you didn’t mean to do or didn’t do, or siblings who you don’t really get along with. or parents not getting along. What is nice is that Ms. Hannigan writes about all the difficult stuff in families but shows how much the family cares about each other too. There is even a little mystery thrown into the story having to do with a rickety old house next door. I thought Ms. Hannigan’s writing style flowed well and she wrote about very believable characters. It was nice that Ms. Hannigan included Delia’s family as being multicultural. Willow was a great main character who you really care about. Willow’s little brother’s (and his big dog’s) trouble-making added some humor to the story (and I always like humor). There are very nice pencil sketches throughout the book (a few in each chapter) by Ms. Hughes that went well with the story. There are also all kinds of recipes scattered in the book (if the chapter dealt with the girls making something – there is a recipe for it). That will be fun to try some of them out. At 288 pages the book gives a young advanced reader a great story to get involved in. I think older kids will enjoy learning about this family too.
*NOTE I got an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2016
Cousins Willow and Delia can’t stand the thought of wearing the ugly pink flower girl dresses their aunt Rosie has picked out for her wedding. They’d much rather be junior bridesmaids like their older sisters, or better yet, bake something to be served at the reception. Figuring their talents will be recognized if they show off their skills, the girls keep trying new things in the kitchen only to cause disaster after disaster.
This gentle family story conveys all the excitement - both good and bad - that comes with major family celebrations. The two central characters, though sometimes bratty, behave believably for their age, and their adventures in the kitchen are funny and relatable. Recipes at the end of each chapter provide an easy tie-in activity for readers to enjoy, and though the ending might be too neat and happy for adult readers, it is likely to please readers in grades 2 to 5. The illustrations by Brooke Boynton Hughes (some of which were not final in the ARC edition) perfectly match the sweetness of the story, and they appropriately package the book for the age group most likely to enjoy it.
Character names like Sweet William and Agapanthus are noticeably out of place in the story, and would be the subject of much more ridicule in real life. Cupcakes also don’t figure as heavily into the plot as the title suggests, which implies that this title was chosen solely so that this book could ride the coattails of the recent cupcake fad. The girls’ professional-level baking abilities also seem highly unlikely, and they contradict the characters’ otherwise childish behavior.
This title will easily find an audience among fans of the popular Cupcake Diaries and Cupcake Club series. It is the kind of book that will frequently be called “cute," but which will be forgotten in favor of a new fad in a few years' time.
This gentle family story conveys all the excitement - both good and bad - that comes with major family celebrations. The two central characters, though sometimes bratty, behave believably for their age, and their adventures in the kitchen are funny and relatable. Recipes at the end of each chapter provide an easy tie-in activity for readers to enjoy, and though the ending might be too neat and happy for adult readers, it is likely to please readers in grades 2 to 5. The illustrations by Brooke Boynton Hughes (some of which were not final in the ARC edition) perfectly match the sweetness of the story, and they appropriately package the book for the age group most likely to enjoy it.
Character names like Sweet William and Agapanthus are noticeably out of place in the story, and would be the subject of much more ridicule in real life. Cupcakes also don’t figure as heavily into the plot as the title suggests, which implies that this title was chosen solely so that this book could ride the coattails of the recent cupcake fad. The girls’ professional-level baking abilities also seem highly unlikely, and they contradict the characters’ otherwise childish behavior.
This title will easily find an audience among fans of the popular Cupcake Diaries and Cupcake Club series. It is the kind of book that will frequently be called “cute," but which will be forgotten in favor of a new fad in a few years' time.
May 14, 2014
Delia and Willow are cousins who have been asked to be flower girls in their Aunt Rosie's wedding - but the only problem is that at nine years old, they consider themselves far too old for the job. They'd rather bake cupcakes and other desserts for the wedding reception. How can they prove themselves to Aunt Rosie and to Cat, the caterer who's been hired for the wedding? Disaster after disaster ensues, but in the end, Willow and Delia turn out to be just what the Bumpus family needs to save the wedding day.
This was an adorable, albeit not very groundbreaking, read. I picked it up primarily because it features cousins of different races - something you don't see often despite it being increasingly common in real life. Delia and Willow had well-defined, distinct personalities and family lives, which can be difficult to convey in this kind of lighthearted realistic fiction. My only complaint is that this really should have been aimed at an early chapter book audience, or at the very least shortened to be of a similar length as Coco Simon's Cupcake Diaries series. The fluffy subject matter and easily deduced plot seemed too simplistic for the book's length and the vocabulary used throughout. Several scenes and antics were repeated too many times - we get it, Sweet William thinks he's going to be a ring bear and is practicing growling, and nine-year-olds make messes in the kitchen. Still, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this to fans of Simon's series or other similar baking-themed realistic fiction.
This was an adorable, albeit not very groundbreaking, read. I picked it up primarily because it features cousins of different races - something you don't see often despite it being increasingly common in real life. Delia and Willow had well-defined, distinct personalities and family lives, which can be difficult to convey in this kind of lighthearted realistic fiction. My only complaint is that this really should have been aimed at an early chapter book audience, or at the very least shortened to be of a similar length as Coco Simon's Cupcake Diaries series. The fluffy subject matter and easily deduced plot seemed too simplistic for the book's length and the vocabulary used throughout. Several scenes and antics were repeated too many times - we get it, Sweet William thinks he's going to be a ring bear and is practicing growling, and nine-year-olds make messes in the kitchen. Still, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this to fans of Simon's series or other similar baking-themed realistic fiction.
August 6, 2014
gr 3-5
Great story of two close cousins who join the annual vacation meet-up on Lake Michigan with their families. This time it's different though, as their Aunt is getting married and has assigned them as flower girls. They are upset by this, especially since their older sisters get to participate as junior bridesmaids. And because their Aunt bought them these super pink dresses to wear as a part of it. They want to show their Aunt they can do something BIG and ADULT, like make the food for the wedding. Hijinx of course, ensue, but some nice surprises too.
My only hesitation with this book is it felt a little long. However, I liked everything else about it. It reminded me of Beverly Cleary, in that they were real nuanced characters and Hannigan showed some of the tough things of being that age, and having families dealing with job loss, etc. Sweet William and the Dog Bernadine, along with Sweet William's menagerie of other animals keep a warm comic element, along with puns delivered by the grandfather. The ending, though partially imagined by Willow and Delia, didn't feel fake. This is the first in a series, with at least 3 planned, so it will be interesting to see what happens next. I think young readers will enjoy this book. Plus, there are pencil drawings throughout, with a whimsical feel, that you want to pore over as well.
The sparkly pink touches on the cover will not hurt either in luring in readers.
Great story of two close cousins who join the annual vacation meet-up on Lake Michigan with their families. This time it's different though, as their Aunt is getting married and has assigned them as flower girls. They are upset by this, especially since their older sisters get to participate as junior bridesmaids. And because their Aunt bought them these super pink dresses to wear as a part of it. They want to show their Aunt they can do something BIG and ADULT, like make the food for the wedding. Hijinx of course, ensue, but some nice surprises too.
My only hesitation with this book is it felt a little long. However, I liked everything else about it. It reminded me of Beverly Cleary, in that they were real nuanced characters and Hannigan showed some of the tough things of being that age, and having families dealing with job loss, etc. Sweet William and the Dog Bernadine, along with Sweet William's menagerie of other animals keep a warm comic element, along with puns delivered by the grandfather. The ending, though partially imagined by Willow and Delia, didn't feel fake. This is the first in a series, with at least 3 planned, so it will be interesting to see what happens next. I think young readers will enjoy this book. Plus, there are pencil drawings throughout, with a whimsical feel, that you want to pore over as well.
The sparkly pink touches on the cover will not hurt either in luring in readers.
February 9, 2017
Delia and Willow are cousins who look forward to vacationing each August in Saugatuck, Michigan along with their families. Willow's from Chicago and Delia is from Detroit and they all stay at Mr. Henry's Whispering Pines. This year is especially exciting since their Aunt Rosie will be marrying Jonathan! Willow and Delia long to be chefs, even though they are only 9 years old. Yet, when they try to help out Cat Sutherland,the new chef at the inn, things go terribly wrong! How will they ever convince Cat to take them on as sous chefs?
As the eventful week wears on, the whole family pitches in to make Rosie and Jonathan's wedding one to remember. Then a huge tragedy strikes when Cat injures her leg and is taken to the hospital...who will finish the wedding cake in time? Willow and Delia are up to the challenge!
The Cupcake Cousins is full of humor, family, (mild) disasters, but especially love. With impending job loss, possible marital difficulties, and spunky little brothers, the family finds a way to pull together and come up with a brilliant plan to solve all the problems!
Includes 8 delicious recipes that are key to the story.
As the eventful week wears on, the whole family pitches in to make Rosie and Jonathan's wedding one to remember. Then a huge tragedy strikes when Cat injures her leg and is taken to the hospital...who will finish the wedding cake in time? Willow and Delia are up to the challenge!
The Cupcake Cousins is full of humor, family, (mild) disasters, but especially love. With impending job loss, possible marital difficulties, and spunky little brothers, the family finds a way to pull together and come up with a brilliant plan to solve all the problems!
Includes 8 delicious recipes that are key to the story.
June 10, 2014
My Thoughts On The Book: I am a high school teacher and not terribly fond of reading children's books. I decided to branch away from my norm of reviewing and found this delightful book. I believe it was written for upper elementary students. I would give this book 5 stars. I thought the cover was cute, the story was entertaining and I believe it will hold the attention of a younger person. I loved the life lessons that were presented in the story. My favorite part of the story was the cooking. I would give this as a gift to a child and would recommend it highly to teachers and librarians.
Disclaimer: I received this book free from NetGalley Publicity Company in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Thanks guys for allowing me this opportunity.
Disclaimer: I received this book free from NetGalley Publicity Company in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Thanks guys for allowing me this opportunity.
October 5, 2015
I really enjoyed the book. It was the first in the series. The book was about these two girls named Willow and Delia and they are cousins and they make yummy treats for special events. In this book they are planning to make a wonderful cake and other treats for their aunt's wedding. The only problem is that their aunt has already hired a chef to make the cake. Willow and Delia are not happy with this and even worse they are stuck being the flower girls and they hate the color of their dresses. Willow and Delia are afraid to ask their aunt to change their roles. Also they try to make yummy treats for their aunt to show how great chefs they are but they end up making the treats too sweet or too salty. Also, the chef hates Willow and Delia because of all the trouble they have caused. That's all I'm going to say because I don't want to spoil the book, also I want you guys to read it. I really enjoyed the book but I thought story was a little bit too cliche'. Other than that, I think that it's a great book and I recommend people to read it.
July 8, 2014
In this refreshing summer tale nine-year-old cousins Willow and Delia try to avoid becoming flower girls (too babyish) in their aunt's wedding, by trying to prove they would make perfect caterers instead. This leads to humorous and often disastrous results. Serious topics such as possible divorce and the loss of a home are gently included as well. The multicultural families, one cousin is black and one is white are deftly woven into the tale of a creative loving family. Reminiscent of a younger version of The Penderwicks, readers who enjoy wholesome tales with kids allowed to use their own imaginations, entertaining themselves independently outdoors, while enjoying the splendors of nature, will find much to enjoy in this delightful tale full of recipes and whimsical pen and ink illustrations.
September 29, 2014
Sweet (sorry for the pun), gentle read featuring two cousins and their families as everyone spends a week together preparing for a wedding. The major issue is that the two girls would rather cook something for their aunt's wedding than be flower girls--they are too old and the dresses are a horrible pink. Other issues touched upon in the story are their older sisters who are moving beyond them, an unemployed father, a cook who is worried about her family home. While these are big issues, none are covered in too much detail to bring the story down and all is resolved in the end. The girls' mishaps in the kitchen and a younger brother provide touches of humor too. Spot illustrations, font size, and white space make this a good choice for chapter book readers who are looking for longer books without being too overwhelmed. Recipes are also included.
Read
August 12, 2014An adorable debut centering on a large family, a pink wedding, and, of course, CAKE! Interspersed throughout are recipes of things the characters bake/cook in the book, all of which are simply mouthwatering.
I especially loved the thought Hannigan put into naming all of her characters. With a florist as the family patriarch, it makes sense that many of the children and grandchildren are named for flowers and plants.
And I positively sweated as I read about Delia and Willow messing up recipe after recipe - often, through no fault of their own!
I have a feeling this will be a good book to pair with Tara Dairman's ALL FOUR STARS.
EDIT 5/14:
I especially loved the thought Hannigan put into naming all of her characters. With a florist as the family patriarch, it makes sense that many of the children and grandchildren are named for flowers and plants.
And I positively sweated as I read about Delia and Willow messing up recipe after recipe - often, through no fault of their own!
I have a feeling this will be a good book to pair with Tara Dairman's ALL FOUR STARS.
EDIT 5/14:
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