Birthdays and Bridesmaids

This interactive chapter book, first in the Magical Mix-Ups series, takes place in the world of “Mixtopia,” where doe-eyed fairies, princesses, witches, and more live (mostly) in harmony. A loose story line follows unlikely friends Princess Sapphire and Emerald the witch as they prepare to attend a fairy wedding. Prompts urge readers to contribute their own drawings and complete unfinished pictures (“Crazy hair here, please!” “Add more patterns to the dress”). Disaster strikes when the wedding rings are stolen by a fairy whose birthday has been overlooked, and Princess Sapphire and Emerald go hunting for clues. Edwards and Hodgkinson provide just the right amount of narrative, allowing readers to confidently take the unicorn-drawn carriage reins. Ages 7–up. (Aug.)