Member Reviews

This is an awesome book that emphasizes the value of embracing the unexpected. I believe that this is definitely important for young readers, because oftentimes kids will *really* dislike it when things go against their plans. Annabelle teaches kids that, when things don't always go your way, the outcome can still be good and maybe even better than you originally thought. Additionally, this book subtly illustrates that teamwork, specifically with siblings, is meaningful and matters. Annabelle and Anthony show that two brains are better than one, and independence is not always the best option. This is conveyed through the success of their party, and it helps to provide them with more party planning opportunities in the end. Lastly, I really liked the illustrations. They helped match the "controlled chaos" theme of the entire book, making a great link between the story and its visuals.
Bravo!

Was this review helpful?

Annabelle, a young party planner, prepares the neighborhood block party with every detail perfected. But when she needs her brother Anthony's help for a grand-finale surprise, his big headphones cause miscommunication and chaos ensues. Annabelle’s event falls apart, but turns into something even more fun - a whacky event filled with mishaps and laughs!

My kids loved this book. The style of the illustrations are perfectly suited to the story and accurately represents the silliness that occurs after each unfortunate misheard word. We also loved that she went to her brother for help. Too often are siblings portrayed at odds in stories, and as a parent I really appreciated that the first person Annabelle goes to for help is Anthony. I would much rather read stories about siblings turning to one another for support and care! It's a family message I can absolutely get behind - 5 stars from us!

Was this review helpful?

A very cute book about Annabelle and her surprise. The illustrations of spaghetti on things and Annabelle were very nice. Little kids will definitely enjoy this book.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.

Was this review helpful?

I would like to thank Two Lions Publishing, Jenna Beatrice and Annabel Tempest. and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview this title before the publication date of March 18, 2025.

First, let me saw that the illustrations in this book are bright, colorful, detailed, and FUN! While that is what initially drew us to the book, we were wholly impressed with the story as well. This book is about a little girl who is the ultimate party planner and has been tasked to plan a neighborhood bash. Annabelle plan everything meticulously and feel confident that this will be her best party yet. And then things happen and chaos ensues. Annabelle has normal feelings of anxiety, disappointment, and frustration that the party did not turn out as she had hoped, in fact, she thinks the party was ruined. But then she realizes that, while things happened that weren't planned, the party still turned out great and everyone had a good time which is what matters!

Clara, my 6 yr old daughter, said that she liked all the animals taking over the party (she said it was "hilarious") and I just loved finding the details in the pictures. There is definitely a lesson in this book which is not preachy but is presented in a fun way.

Was this review helpful?

Written by Jenna Beatrice and illustrated by Annabel Tempest, Annabelle and the Spaghetti-Confetti Surprise is a perfect read for your little one!

Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC!

Annabelle is the right mix of style and substance, adorning herself with sparkly bows and carrying her trusty clipboard, crafting the perfect party of your dreams. Now what happens when the single most important event in your social calendar goes topsy-turvy for no fault of yours? Read on to know how Annabelle navigates her dilemmas!

With simple language that's easily understood and some of the most yummy illustrations, I loved every bit of it!

Was this review helpful?

I love this quirky, cute and almost child-like art style! The illustrations are so fun with a lot of action to show on each page. I could see this one being read independently by younger readers, maybe 3rd graders would enjoy it best. Cute little story with lots of details to catch the eye.

Was this review helpful?

This is a fun and colorful book about a motivated young girl and how she handles an unpredictable predicament! Fun rhymes and story lines, young children are bound to giggle with this one

Was this review helpful?

A really fun book to read with my niece - she loved every page and asks to read it every time I am with her!

Was this review helpful?

This delightful tale of a party-planning perfectionist will have your Littles roaring with laughter. When Annabelle plans the perfect neighborhood block party complete with a balloon drop surprise, will she be the one in for a shock when her plans go awry? A sweet book that’ll launch conversations about resilience and being open to fun surprises.

Was this review helpful?

This story is so silly and fun! I really enjoyed this book and I know for a fact that children will love it too. It’s perfect for kids who are starting to read. The illustrations were adorable and I felt like this is a book I would have read in elementary school. I definitely recommend for parents to buy this book for their kids.

Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for this e-ARC.

Was this review helpful?

Annabelle plans perfect parties. But now she needs to plan the biggest party ever. A BLOCK PARTY. The party is the very bestest, but when it comes time for the BIG SURPRISE something unplanned happens!
The illustrations by Annabel Tempest are delightful, brilliantly colorful, busy, and fun!
Well suited for reading WITH someone of ANY age including ESL, and great for gifting to everyone, but especially to a school or your local public library!
I requested and received a temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions provided by Two Lions via NetGalley. Thank you! Available Mar 18, 2025

Was this review helpful?

I read this book with my daughter and we both really enjoyed it

I liked the illustrations, they were very cute and in keeping with the story and it was definitely a fun read!

We liked the mix of characters and how they developed as the book progressed - we liked that the misheard words which made us giggle.

It is 4.5 stars from me for this one, rounded up to 5 stars for Goodreads and Amazon - very highly recommended!

Was this review helpful?

‘Annabelle and the Spaghetti-Confetti Surprise’ by Jenna Beatrice is a whimsical and delightful story that promises a fun-filled adventure with a unique twist. The book follows Annabelle as she embarks on a creative quest, combining the magic of spaghetti with the excitement of confetti.

Plot: ★★★★☆
The plot is engaging and imaginative, revolving around Annabelle's experimental celebration that results in a surprising and delightful mess. The storyline is both entertaining and inventive, offering readers a fun and humorous take on the concept of combining unexpected elements to create something special. The narrative is well-paced, with plenty of whimsical moments to keep young readers entertained.

Character: ★★★☆☆
Annabelle is an enthusiastic and inventive protagonist, though her character could benefit from a bit more depth. While her creative spirit and adventurous nature are charming, her character development feels somewhat limited. Readers may enjoy her playful antics but might find her character lacking in more nuanced traits or background.

Illustrations: ★★★★☆
The illustrations are vibrant and playful, perfectly capturing the book's whimsical tone. The use of bright colours and dynamic imagery brings the story's events to life and complements the narrative's playful spirit. The illustrations effectively engage young readers and enhance their enjoyment of Annabelle's spaghetti-confetti adventure.

Engagement: ★★★☆☆
The book is engaging, with its fun concept and lively illustrations drawing readers in. However, the engagement level may vary depending on the reader’s interest in whimsical stories and imaginative scenarios. While the narrative is entertaining, it may not captivate all readers equally, especially those who prefer more grounded or realistic stories.

Readability: ★★★★☆
‘Annabelle and the Spaghetti-Confetti Surprise’ is written in clear and accessible language, making it easy for young readers to follow along. The text complements the playful illustrations, creating a cohesive reading experience. The readability is well-suited for the target age group, facilitating an enjoyable and smooth reading experience.

Enjoyment: ★★★☆☆
The book offers a fun and imaginative read, though enjoyment may vary depending on personal taste. The quirky premise and lively illustrations contribute to an enjoyable experience, but the level of enjoyment might be influenced by the reader’s preference for whimsical, lighthearted stories.


‘Annabelle and the Spaghetti-Confetti Surprise’ is a delightful and imaginative book that brings a playful and inventive concept to life. With its engaging plot and vibrant illustrations, it offers a fun reading experience. While the character development could be deeper, and engagement might vary, the book is well-suited for readers who enjoy whimsical and creative adventures.

Was this review helpful?

Super cute book that kids will enjoy. The rhyming is clever and fun and is guaranteed to make kids laugh. There is lots to look at within the pictures of the book which will help keep the attention of little readers. For some reason Annabelle kind of reminds me of the character from Pinkalicious. I also really liked the message that even if things don’t go to plan you can still roll with it and have fun!

Was this review helpful?

My daughters loved this book! My daughter is also named Annabelle, so it was very exciting to see her name in the book. This story is an adorable and funny way to help kids see that not everything needs to go to plan. It’ll be ok if things aren’t “perfect” as long as everyone has fun.

Was this review helpful?

This is an adorable story about how something can still be great even if things go wrong, I loved the illustrations and the pretty, girlie aesthetic

Was this review helpful?

Annabelle and her brother Anthony plan a party which goes awry. It teaches the important lesson that something doesn't need to be perfect to be wonderful.

Was this review helpful?

This children's book had such a girly, glittery vibe sparkled with some 90s flair. It's entertaining, enjoyable and fun! Recommended!

Was this review helpful?

I read this book with my son and he thought it was so funny! Anything that can capture his attention for his bedtime story is huge. He asked if he can have a spaghetti party now with animals.

Was this review helpful?

Thank you for the ARC NetGalley!

I wish we could do half stars, cause I'd give this 4.5! But I'm rounding up since this is such a cute little book with the most adorable drawings. If I had kids, I'd pick this up in a heartbeat.

My only two issues are the font choice (super nitpicky, I know. It just felt too standard and not as fun as the book as) and that I wish the author would have explored a bit more how upset Annabelle got after everything happened. It's important to let kids know that their feelings are valid, and seeing Annabelle get more into her feelings would've been nice. Basically, I just wanted to see more of her and these deliciously adorable drawings!

Was this review helpful?