Dear Kay,
It’s publication day for Knitting Yarns: Writers on Knitting
I’ve just started to read these stories—I had a galley this summer, but somehow I kept not being in the same place that the galley was. So now I’m having fun reading some of my favorite writers writing about my favorite thing. There are so many quotable things in here that I give up: just read this book. It is giving me so much to think about, such windows into the lives of these writers. There is very funny stuff in here, and also some true heartbreak.
Included in the book are essays by:
Ann Hood curated this collection. She’s a prolific writer and teacher, most familiar to knitters as the author of Knitting Circle
OK, I can’t resist quoting Barbara Kingsolver, whose “Where to Begin” is maybe the dreamiest piece of writing about knitting I’ve ever read.
It starts with a craving to fill the long evening downslant. There will be whole wide days of watching winter drag her skirts cross the mud-yard from east to west, going nowhere. You will want to nail down all these wadded handfuls of time, to stick-pin them to the blocking board, frame them on a 24-stitch gauge. Ten to the inch, ten rows to the hour, straggling trellises of days held fast in the acreage of a shawl. Time by this means will be domesticated and cannot run away.
There are five patterns by Helen Bingham. I’m going to dive into her Fisher Lacy Wrap, which calls for worsted weight yarn. I can’t think of a time I’ve made a wrap out of fat yarn on size 10 needles. This could be revolutionary. I thought this was illegal.
To mark the occasion, here’s a contest. Because it’s a Monday, and we’re all kind of sleepy, enter by leaving a comment with whatever book you’re reading right now. Three winners will be drawn at random to receive a copy of Knitting Yarns: Writers on Knitting
Love,
Ann
I am currently reading Insurgent by Victoria Roth, its the second of a trilogy. I would love a copy of Knitting Yarns.
I am reading Jon Krakaur’s Eiger Dreams and Alice Hoffman’s At Risk.
I just finished Too Close to Home by Linwood Barclay. (The thriller before that featured a knitting needle, as a murder weapon?)
Right now, I’m reading “Empty Mansions” by Bill Dedman and Paul Clark Newell. It’s about the life of Huguette Clark, and the empty spaces she owned and never lived in. I also have a pile of library books to my left, mocking me with their due dates, but I’d love to add another book to my list of things to read!
I’m reading _Five Days at Memorial_. Really sad and surprising how vividly it takes me back to the days of Katrina.
I can’t wait to read this book. I have high hopes it’ll be as good as the Great Deluge by Douglas Brinkley. NOLA is such a fantastic city – deserves all the time, $$ and attention we can give it.
I would love to be reading Empty Mansions, and will get to it soon! Last night, though, I started Madame Bovary! En français, mes amies. So far, so good, but a dictionary by the bedside might come in handy.
This looks like a great collection! I am reading “How Architecture Works” by Witold Rybczynski – he can teach you about anything! also loving Lena Corwin’s “Made by Hand”.
What am I not reading right now? Well… for non-school related reading, it would be a YA novel “Dodger” by Terry Pratchett. Sometimes I need a break from those graduate textbooks and articles and need a quick easy read.
I am reading “A Tale for the Time Being” by Ruth Ozeki, a very haunting story.
I’m reading “To the Lighthouse” by Virginia Woolf—for book group. I loved “Mrs. Dalloway”, so hoping for the best…
I’m reading “I shouldn’t be telling you this” by Kate White, because my husband said I HAD to.
Oh, bless you. Mrs. Dally way took me forever to get through (and is such a short book!)
I am reading The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami. So far no knitting related stuff in it.
I just so happen to be reading Knit One, Kill Two by Maggie Sefton.
I am reading The Yarn Whisperer” by Clara Parkes, which is amazing and also slogging my way through A Dance with Dragons by George RR Martin.
I am currently listening to the Funeral In Blue by Anne Perry on Audible. Its the series with William Monk and I am really enjoying it, and although there is no knitting in it- I enjoy listening while I knit.
This sounds like a fun read. I am reading Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher by Tim Egan. It is about Edward Curtis who photographed and documented the American Indians in the early 1900’s. Talk about obsession. He had it.
I’m reading “Blunt Instrument” by Georgette Heyer. A Brittish upper crust whodunnit. Fun.
Red Strangers, by Elizabeth Huxley, is in my lap at night. This book is a must read for authors as Huxley has recounted the colonization of Kenya from the perspective of some of the Kikuyu tribe (still in Kenya according to recent travelers), starting with the occasional visit by a trader. Even the tempo of life is captured, much like the slow tempo of Middlemarch, another village’s story.
I should feel like I should apologize for rattling on, but no such luck — it is a great book and has been reprinted.
Cheers to all.
I’m listening to Adam Gopnik’s “The Table Comes First”, and reading Penelope Lively’s “Moon Tiger” on paper.
What a wonderful bunch of writers in this new book.
Almost finished with Ordinary Heroes by Scott Turow. This is rather appropriate for this Veteran’s time of year. Not planned however.
I’m always reading more than one book at a time! Currently it’s “Allegiant” by Victoria Roth (Divergent Series) and “The Yarn Whisperer” by Clara Parks. I’d love to read this new book… 🙂
I’m always reading multiple books at the same time so I would be happy to add a new one. The two I have picked up most recently are “The Yarn Whisperer” by Clara Parkes and “Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card.
I’m between books right now. Finished a great one last week, not I can’t seem to find anything I like. This book would definitely help my predicament. I’ll also browse the comments here for ideas!
“Blessed Unrest” Paul Hawken, just started.
“Knitting Rules” by the Yarn Harlot – picked it up again just last night because I needed a hat tutorial.
The Flamethrowers by Rachel Kushner. Knitting Yarns may be next – sounds terrific.
I am reading “Ender’s game”. Would love to win!
I just finished Donna Tartt’s The Little Friend. She has a new book out, The Goldfinch, and I became curious about her. Also recently read her second of the three books, The Secret History. The Goldfinch will be next but not right away. I enjoyed The Secret History more than The Little Friend. Her writing is not exactly dense — not sure how to describe it — but it just flows and carries one along. Now you’ve got me interested in “Knitting Yarns.” Between knitting, crochet, and reading — aaahhgg — not enough hours in the day. Wish I could figure out how to do both at the same time — books on tape I guess is the obvious answer.
Enjoying the new blog design now that I’m getting used to it.
I use a cookbook holder to hold my books while I’m reading. So handy!
An Irish cookbook by chef Rachel Allen, Rachel’s Irish Family Food. A beautiful read!
Corresponding with Carlos : A Biography of Carlos Kleiber. Greatest conductor of our times. See for yourself: http://youtu.be/sTLAVsNrE88.
Oooh, that sounds good! Will have to look for that.
Currently reading “You Can Heal Your Life” by Louise Hay. I just don’t know where to begin…
LoveDiane
I’m re-reading the original Nancy Drew books. Each book takes just over an hour to get through, so it’s great reading on my commute.
The Orphan Train, by Kline………….sad but well done story.
I just finished Pastrix by Nadia Bolz-Weber, a tattooed ELCA Lutheran pastor. I enjoyed it a lot.
I’m reading “Colour Scheme” by Ngaio Marsh. This book looks very intriguing, thanks for sharing the info.
Intermittently reading the Atkinson book about WWII in Europe but also shamefacedly rereading “Clan of the Cave Bear.”
I am reading “Bone and Bread” by Canadian author Saleema Nawaz and enjoying every word. I highly recommend it.
Thanks for the contest!
I’m reading “Wherever You Go, There You Are,” by Jon Kabat-Zinn. Having mixed feelings about it.
I’m reading An Everlasting Meal. Love to read cookbooks! & knitting books! )
Thanks for the giveaway!
I’m currently reading The Legend of the Christmas Ship by Carl Behrend. Based on true story from 1911 and set on the Great Lakes. Very fitting for today as the gales of November are blowing and the snow is falling off of Lake Superior. Love your updated and redesigned blog and Knitting Yarns is going on my Christmas list.
Reading: “Try the Morgue”, by Eva Marie Staal
Listening to: “Maddaddam”, by Margaret Atwood
Knitting: hot pink cardigan for granddaughter #2 and a Color Affection for me.
I am reading” In Sunlight and In Shadow” by Mark Helprin … I’m half way thru and don’t want it to end.
Just finished Christopher Morley’s Parnassus on Wheels and about to start The Haunted Bookshop. How did I miss these before? They were brought to my attention through my subscription to the Melville House novella collection. They are a booklover’s delight!
Currently reading: Far From the Tree by Andrew Solomon; With Open Hands by Henri Nouwen and the latest New Yorker.
Between books at the moment. Really want to read Clara Parkes “The Yarn Whisperer”.
Wow, that book does have some wonderful contributors! I Just started Dinner with Lenny: The Last Long Interview with Leonard Bernstein.
I’m reading Into The Wilderness by Sara Donati and if you are a fan of Diana Gabaldon this book is a must read!
Light Between the Oceans
This book sounds awesome! Right now one of the books I’m reading is Quiet; and I also just finished reading another book about introverts. Very interesting. Also reading Ghost Rider by Neil Peart; amazing travel & grief/healing log.
Just finished “Rav Hisda’s Daughter, Book 1” by Maggie Anton. Another in her series of historical fiction about Jewish women (and family life), and another fascinating story about “love, the Talmud and sorcery” as it’s subtitled.
I’m reading The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt. It’s a very good, gripping read. Consequently, I stay up too late reading every evening.
I am just finishing “Death Comes to Pemberley” by P.D. James – quite a wonderful mystery, actually!
I’ve been reading “The Memory Keeper’s Daughter” forever – because I over-volunteered and have time to either knit *or* read. And for the safety of those around me, I’ve been knitting in my limited free time.
Choosing Civility by P.M. Forni
Just finished Lee Smith’s wonderful Guests on Earth and Ann Patchett’s State of Wonder. Don’t know if I have the energy for The Bully Pulpit just now. So maybe next up is Donna Andrews’s Duck the Halls.
I love contests! Just finished reading Billy Linn’s Long Halftime Walk about the Iraq war for book group. Very good, but probably better ( about the war) was The Yellow Birds. Looking for something a little lighter now…
I’m reading now “Life Is A Verb” by Patti Digh. Never too early or late to start living life intentionally and this book is giving me a great jumpstart.
I’m reading, “Tell the Wolves I’m Home,” a wonderfully written coming of age novel by Carol Rifka Brunt. And, I’m also reading other responses to this post for additions to my reading list.
I am reading “The World According to Bertie” by Alexander McCall Smith, it’s from his 44 Scotland Street series.
I am reading Huston Smith’s The Religions of Man. God help me.
I’m listening to The Hunger Games- the first book in the series. yes, I am sadly behind the times but finally I understand what everyone else has known for ages- this is a great story with a fabulous heroine.
Also reading Composing Another Life by Catherine Bateson so I can plan for my next life.
I am reading “How The Light Gets In: A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel” by Louise Penny and revisiting Stephanie Pearl-McPhee’s “Free-Range Knitter” occasionally. Would love to win a copy of “Knitting Yarns”. Oh, and congrats on your essay.
I’m reading The Grizzly’s Christmas, adapted by Cindy Schuricht, illustrated by Miranda Marks. Local release party was yesterday. “Well-told tale”; beautiful illustrations.
Just finished reading The Perfect Ghost. I thought it was kind of predictable and although I was right on one count, I was surprised by another!
Would love to win a copy of this Knitting Yarns!
I am currently re-reading, for probably the 20th time, The Joyous Season by Patrick Dennis. I love this book.
I’m about to dive into the Yarn Whisperer; the anticipation is delicious.
Just getting into Louise Penny’s Bury Your Dead (Inspector Gamache). With diversions to Forks over Knives, which has some great recipes. And my ebook is Bowling Ave – it’s fun the second time around with narration by The Author. It’s fun to listen to in the car.
Reading The Princes in the Tower by Alison Weir. Knitting the Eyelet cardigan by Wendy Bernard.
I’m a Grisham fan, so I just finished “Sycamore Row”. “Empty Mansions” is next.
“Wolf Hall” by Hilary Mantel; historic fiction about Thomas Cromwell, King Henry VIII, and a lot of very rough sly and power-hungry people. I’m on page 161 and the end is on page 532. It’s such a good feeling knowing you have hundreds of good pages left in your book!
I’m currently reading Luminaries – the most recent Booker prize winner. But what I am doing right now is sitting by the bedside of my dying mother. And I am knitting. I can’t imagine doing anything else. It calms me and it feels as though my serenity can somehow wash over her too. My trip to see her was rushed but I took the time to grab yarn and needles and a special pattern. I know that I will treasure whatever I make in the years ahead because if the circumstances of its creation..
I loved the quote from Barbara Kingsolver and look forward to reading Knitting Yarns.
I had a very similar experience this past March with my father. I knit 2 sweaters for my nieces twins during this time. It was bitter sweet to give them to her. My dad had never met his great grandchildren, but I feel he is with them with these sweaters. My prayers are with you.
I am so touched by your comment–glad you have your knitting. Two years ago this weekend, we said goodbye to my mum and knit socks were a big part of that trip.
I’m reading and enjoying “Z, a novel of Zelda Fitzgerald,” by Anne Fowler. On Thursday, my book group will be talking about “The warmth of other suns,” by Isabel Wilkerson, a truly wonderful book.
I’m ready “The Yarn Whisperer” by Clara Parkes, who I want to invite to dinner just so I can hear her talk about yarn. And baking.
Me too, Marianne in SC, but I’m reading Stephanie Pearl-McPhee’s Yarn Rules! for sock encouragement. For in the car and work listening I have Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins on my iPod and for at-home knitting, also on the iPod, I have John Case’s The Genesis Code, a thriller written when cloning was news, at least that’s what I think the mystery will be. On the Kindle Fire is Clive Cussler & Jack DuBrul’s new Oregon Files thriller, Mirage, that Durwood and I are sharing.
I would love a copy of Knitting Yarns. Pick me! Pick me! (I’m the chubby little woman in the red and black cowl jumping up and down at the back of the room.)
The Poetry Home Repair Manual, by Ted Kooser — yes, it really is about poetry. Even Pablo Neruda had something to say about knitting socks!
Just started “The Yarn Whisperer” by Clara Parkes!!! Congratulations on the book, Ann!
I’m reading The Leopard by Jo Nesbo. It’s very suspense filled. I love the whole series by Jo Nesbo.
At this time of the year, I always read.” He Sees You When You Are Sleeping”, by Mary Higgins Clark, and Carol Higgins Clark.
Currently I am reading the wonderful Ms. Kingsolver’s book Flight Behavior for this month’s book club. I am also in the middle of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (reading it aloud to my daughter for the first time – awww!)
I’m reading The Ghost Bride, by Yangsze Choo. Enjoyable!
I’m reading The Cellist of Sarajevo, but only in tiny bits at a time, creeping up to it sideways, because I’m pretty sure it’s going to make me ugly cry.
I loved “The Knitting Circle”. What a great side benefit today to have all these book recommendations! My list is set now for the winter. I am currently reading the third book by Kahled Hosseini (of Kite Runner fame) called “And The Mountains Echoed”. He is just such a fabulous storyteller. You say you’re going to just read a few pages, and he gathers you right in.
I’m reading The Solace of Open Spaces by Gretel Ehrlich, along with Molecular Biology for Dummies (I’m not kidding). A knitting book would make a great triumvirate, don’t ya think?
Currently reading, The Veganist.
Reading the latest in the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series. Great title: The Minor Adjustment Beauty Salon. When life in my urban corner of the USA gets too awful, I find a visit with my friends in Botswana very comforting.
I am currently reading Charles Krauthammer’s book, Things That Matter, a reflection of his insight and brilliance, as well as his wicked sense of humor!! I would loveloveLOVE to win the coy of Knitting Yarns…Barbara Kingsolver has long been a favorite writer of mine, and she NAILED knitting…loved it!!!
Two books right now – The snow child – by Eowyn Ivey (set in Alaska), and The end of the point – by Elizabeth Graver.
Well, right now I’m reading the Burgess Boys, but I feel like it doesn’t know what it wants to be. Is it about the brothers? The nephew? One of the other billion characters?
So I will give a shout out to my new favorite book: The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. It’s beautiful.
I just happen to be reading Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. I agree that she has a gift for weaving words together to make a beautiful mental picture.
These past few years find me reading a lot of children’s literature and such. Currently I’m reading “The Rithmatist” by Brandon Sanderson to see if it would be a good read for my 9 year old. I think she’ll love it!
I am re reading What color is my parachute ?
Lots of great ideas for fun reads in your comments!
My daughter has been after me to get back to knitting. We heard Stephanie Pearl-McPhee’s talk, “Your Brain on Knitting,” in Rockland, Maine, which convinced me that I need to get back to knitting! I’m reading and enjoying her book Free-Range Knitter.
Just about to crack open the first of Margaret Coel’s mystery series set on Wind River reservation in Wyoming. Her books are much like Tony Hillerman’s, tho hers are about the Arapahoe and Shosone and protags are an Indian female attorney and a recovering alcoholic Catholic priest from Boston who runs a church there. I love her, but started the series in the middle this summer after finding her book in a free library give away in Estes Park, CO. So, first book in series is from 1995: The Eagle Catcher. Can’t wait to read it.
Congrats to Ann!!
Bury Your Dead by Louise Penny, I’m working my way through the entire Inspector Gamache series, trying to make them last.
I am reading Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Lowland. I think she just may be my very favorite author! And she doesn’t have a huge output so when there is a new one, it’s pretty exciting!
Currently reading “The Daughters of Mars”. Would love a copy of this book.
I am reading Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy by John Le Carre. I would love to read Knitting Yarns!
I’m reading “Amy’s Answering Machine: Messages from Mom” by Amy Borkowsky . And “To Kill A Mockingbird.” I’m ALWAYS reading “To Kill A Mockingbird.”
I loved Amy’s Answering Machine – it was so funny! I read To Kill a Mockingbird several times, then bought it on CD. It is narrated by Sissy Spacek, who really nails the reading. Once a year I listen to it. Now I’m reading C.J. Box’s Winterkill, set in rural Wyoming; Mae West: It Ain’t No Sin by Simon Louvish; and Ray Blount’s Book of Southern Humor.
Currently enjoying Clara Parkes, The Yarn Whisperer; Book of Ages (bio of Ben Franklin’s sister); and the latest Nora Roberts. The essay collection looks wonderful!!
“My Remarkable Journey,” by Larry King. Interesting, funny read.
As I have just found out that I am to be a first time grandmother, I am reading many books with baby patterns, including: “Special Knits” by Debbie Bliss, “Vintage Knits for Modern Babies” by Hadley Fierlinger and Modern Daily Knitting” by You Know Who (have already made a week’s worth of baby kimonos!) to mention but a few. I must admit, I am intrigued by the possibility of making a grandma wrap from worsted weight wool…
Your name is in brilliant company on the back cover of that book. Very impressive! I am currently reading “Super Sad True Love Story” by Shteyngart.
I’m reading the Sunday New York Times. By the time I put away the knitting, I can only manage a few pages of a book before I fall asleep!
I’m currently reading Dark Places, a mystery. Would gladly give it up to read Knitting Yarns…but then I’d have to finish it later to know who-dunnit!
I’m reading The Improbable Shepherd by Sylvia Jorrin.
Knitting Yarns is my upstairs book and The Killer Angels is my downstairs book. I seem to be spending a lot of time upstairs.
Just finished Dorothy L. Sayers’ “The Mind of the Maker”–a must for writers, even those not primarily concerned with Christian theology. Next up, “MaddAddam,” the final volume in Margaret Atwood’s trilogy. Can’t wait!
Also, I love the new blog.
I just scored two big bags and a box of assorted scifi fantasy from a friend who is moving. As soon as the holiday knitting is done I am jumping into this pile of mental junk food.
I’m reading “Mayflower” by Nathaniel Philbrick in some odd attempt to really understand Thanksgiving… Just picked up “Double Down” by the 2 guys who wrote “Game Change”. Just finished the new book of essays by Delia Ephron (sister and co-writer with Nora) called (I think) “Sister, Friend, husband, dog” – lovely quick read.
Congratulations Ann to being a part of this book. Can’t wait to read your essay whether I win or not!
I’m currently reading “The Man Who Sold the World” about David Bowie. It’s gorgeous.
I am reading “The Bride wore size 12” by Jennifer Weiner. Total summer beach mode… a little late, but I can dream!
Currently reading Changing Habits by Debbie Macomber. Fabulous quote from the book you’re offering! Thank you for the contest.
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins. Getting ready for Catching Fire to come out in theaters.
I am listening to The Boat, by Nam Le. I am reading Tea Time for the Traditionally Built by Alexander McCall Smith. McCall Smith’s writing is much like knitting is to me – quiet and charming, yet never dull. Also – I am a GREAT BIG Ann Patchett fan. Her explorations of the many faces of love in her books (especially Bel Canto and the Magician’s Assistant) feel to me like the perfect capture of what I would try to explain, if I had the words. There’s a married couple in Bel Canto, who were mostly peripheral, and I couldn’t stop talking about what her descriptions of their relationship said to me! RAVES, I tell you. My book club got a little sick of me, I think….. Ohhhhhh, I so hope I get picked!
I’m both reading and being annoyed with Statistics in Plain English. I am starting to think that there is no such thing as “plain English” whilst discussing (or just plain cussing) statistics!
I’m just finishing the last book in the “Divergent” series, and could really use something in my queue. The passage you quoted by Barbara Kingsolver made my heart literally sigh. Oh that I could write like that!
The Book Thief – I want to read it before I see the movie!
Oh, I loved this book. I still think about it. Trying to decide if my 11 year old daughter is ready for it……..
Excellent book!!
I’m rereading “Gone With the Wind” for the first time since I was about 12. Margaret Mitchell was a wonderful writer…what a great read.
Stella Bain Anita Shreve
At the moment I am reading “Oil and Honey: The Education of an Unlikely Activist”, by Bill McKibben. Interesting, eye-opening, and best followed by a book about yarn!!
I just finished reading The Dovekeepers by Alice Hoffman and will be starting The Round House by Louise Erdrich tonight.
i’m reading a nantucket christmas by nancy thayer
Im reading Cora’s Heart, by Rachael Herron, author of the blog Yarn-A-Gogo. Love her easy-reading novels that always have some knitting in them!
Reading the Yarn Whisperer by Clara Parkes and looking forward to staying with the theme with Ann Hood’s book.
Just picked up a collection of Henry James, where I confirmed I have read Daisy Miller and still don’t care about her. “Currently reading” another selection therein, whereby I mean it rides about in the bottom of my bag, whilst I pay vastly more attention to the small bag of knitting above it. I have been cranking out one korknisse per subway ride where I have a leaning or sitting spot, which is a darn good thing, considering how many teachers and coaches and grandparents I think need to receive a handmade ornament this year. I hope they all love winecorks with sweaters and pointy caps, cause I do…
The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert. Nothing like Eat, Pray, Love but a very interesting read.
Reading “The Hobbit.” Makes me happy!
At the suggestion of my doctor I am reading “The Wisdom of Menopause” to try to make sense of how upside down my world feels right now!! I would love to take a break with a good knitting book though!
Thanks for this offering! Can you sign it if I win? Reading “Night Circus” by Morgenstern, but I just started and don’t know where it’s going yet. Also browsing “Aran Knits” by Martin Storey and trying to resist starting a new project before my Christmas knitting is done.
I’m reading The Firebird by Susanna Kearsley and Rooftoppers by Katherine Rundell.
On my phone & Kindle I’m reading Murder Comes Unraveled by Veryl Grace and in hardcopy I am reading Stitches by Anne Lamott (no knitting at all but a good book).
I’m reading The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert, which is honestly a masterpiece. It’s the most beautifully written book I’ve come across in a long time. 🙂
Have just started The Honest Courtesan by Margaret Rosenthal, this is a biography of Veronica Franco who lived in sixteenth century Venice, had never heard of her until caught a movie about her a few weeks ago and was intrigued. Have just finished Allegiant by Veronica Roth – I do enjoy stories with strong female characters, and I’m sure they all knit (or crochet)!
So many books, so much yarn, so little time………..
I’m starting “The Mothers” by Jennifer Gilmore for a book club.
I’m reading Machine of Death: A Collection of Stories About People Who Know How They Will Die, conceived and partially edited by Ryan North, of Dinosaur Comics fame. It’s quite interesting!
How the Light Gets In by Louise Penny. Can’t put it down.
Love, love, love Louise Penny. I recommend her to everyone. I discovered her on the basis of a serendipitous recommendation from a Barnes & Noble employee who made a suggestion when I couldn’t find the book I was looking for. I’ve been hooked ever since!
I’m reading Marion Zimmer Bradley’s Lady of Avalon because it’s harder to knit in the bath than it is to read in the bath, contrary to what knitting photographers would like to tell you.
i am reading a book called Do-It-Yourself-Therapy, i kid you not. It was a gift from my sister, is she trying to tell me something?
I’m currently reading Just What Kind of Mother Are You by Paula Daly, a first time novelist. It’s pretty good!
I have just started ‘the Book With No Name’ because Cyrille is entertaining the thought of giving it to our 14-y-o to read. (The book is possibly hailed by French media as crazy and Tarantino-esque. They have such love for Tarantino!) So that’s kind of what I’m afraid of. Would I rent a Tarantino film to watch with my 14-y-o? Uh, no. But mum also has to stop being a helicopter and let her boys grow up. This is pre-emptive reading (?) Also, possibly too much information for a blog comment.
Love, love, love LOVE this! “Some of my favorite writers writing about my favorite thing.” Yes! I just saw the Barbara Kingsolver essay on the Orion magazine webpage. I couldn’t even use words to tell one of my kniting/writer friends about how wonderful the essay was, and now…now I find that there is a WHOLE BOOK of knitting writing! CHRISTMAS IS HERE!!!
Where It Begins: Knitting as Creation Story by Barbara Kingsolver. http://www.orionmagazine.org/index.php/articles/article/7809
Oh, and I’m reading the also-recently-published Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh. (Subtitle: Unfortunate Situations, Flawed Coping Mechanisms, Mayhem, and Other Things That Happened.) I really think that she is one of the funniest modern writers ever. She’s right up there with you and David Sedaris. I made the mistake of taking the book to bed with me last night. Belly laugh-until-you-cry is wonderful, but not exactly sleep-inducing…
It is a book by Robert Crais.
Congratulations on your published essay – and you’re in such esteemed company! Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy of this book – it sounds wonderful! I’m currently reading The Signature of All Things and loving it!
I’m reading Medium Raw, by Anthony Bourdain (I can hear him talking while I read it – he’s got such a distinctive voice), and I’m about to start re-reading the holiday classic, The Stupidest Angel, by Christopher Moore.
“Taking Flight” by Andre R. Magnuson…free from Amazon. It’s written very well, I’m enjoying it. That book looks amazing, well worth buying it in hardback.
And congratulations on your essay!
I’m currently reading Thomas Pynchon’s “Bleeding Edge.”
“Storm Front” by John Sandford….I love reading his books. Can’t wait to read your essay!
The Sound of Waves by Yukio Mishima because I am living and working in Japan at the moment. It is short, simple and beautiful. And the cover, red and white Japanese waves, has inspired me to try some sashiko (Japanese embroidery). I know it is not knitting but I am planning to try a Japanese knitting pattern soon, once I have worked through my stash!
In honor of Veteran’s Day, I’m reading After Action by Dan Sheehan. Thanks for the contest!
I’m reading Blowback by Valerie Plame because I wanted to know more about the spy world, even though it’s fiction. But I really would rather be reading this boo! Do enter me in the drawing.
Just finished Bad Monkey, by Carl Hiaasen, and have plunged into Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald, by Therese Anne Fowler.
Reading “The Golem and the Jinni” by Helene Wickham. Imaginative, different and an interesting read. Recommend it!
(on the knitting side of reading, just bought Amy Herzog’s “Fit to Flatter.”)
I have just discovered the joys of Ian Rankin’s Rebus novels and am reading “Standing in Another Man’s Grave”
Just finished “I Am Forgotten” by Anouk Markovitz…actually listened to it so that I could knit and listen. It is about four generations of a Hasidic family from World War II to the present. Excellent!
Ian Rankin’s series featuring Rebus.
I am mostly knitting mittens and sewing Christmas pressies, but “Deja Dead” by Kathy Reichs is on my Kindle—it is the first book in the series of novels that inspired the TV show “Bones.”
Right now I am reading Tom Jones by Henry Fielding.
I’m reading Bodies of Water by the amazing T. Greenwood.
I am reading “Little Knell” by Catherine Aird.
The Chemistry of Calm by Henry Emmons, MD
“American Gods” by Neil Gaiman
I’m reading Rambling Man: the life and times of Woody Guthrie by Ed Cray. It’s so great I even put down my knitting!
I’m reading “Blasphemy:New and Selected Stories” by Sherman Alexie. A wonderful writer.
I’m reading Red Square by Martin Cruz Smith and Broken Harbor by Tana French
I’m currently reading “The Urban Bestiary” by Lyanda Lynn Haupt. It’s a fun book about the animals we can meet in an urban environment.
I’m reading George Washington: A Life by Ron Chernow. Very interesting but over 900 pages, people!!!
I am reading Signs of Life by Natalie Taylor. It’s the memoir of a 5-month- pregnant 24-year-old high school English teacher whose husband dies in a freak accident. It doesn’t sound like a page-turner the way I’ve described it, but it is wonderfully honest and very compelling.
I’m reading The hundred-year-old man who climbed out of the window and disappeared, by Jonas Jonasson.
Hope I win! 🙂
I’m reading Ostrich, by Matt Greene. Weird and wonderful.
I’m reading The Excellent Wife by Martha Peace. Would love a knitting read!
“Code Name Verity,” (Elizabeth Wein) side by side with my high school sophomore daughter…
I love that book!!!
Besides rereading Hamlet (next book I’m teaching [teacher = totally deserves a prize, right???]), I am reading Stitches by Anne Lamott. How thematically appropriate!
I just read Looking for Me by Beth Hoffman. I read the entire book in one day. Yes, that is very anti social, but it was a good book. Nothing better than reading all day (except knitting all day). Thanks for the chance to win such a good looking book.
I’m reading “The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes.” I started reading Sir Arthur Conan Doyle at the beginning of this year and now I can’t stop and I don’t know what I’ll do when I’ve finally read all of the gentleman’s work, and I’m almost out of Sherlock Holmes stories and that will be especially wrenching. A book about knitting should do nicely to calm my nerves!
Night Film by Marisha Pessl…thanks for the chance to win!
Currently on a Jane Austen kick. Reading Pride and Predjudice. Alongside, of course, about 5 other various, both fiction and non-fiction.
I have just started The Bloodletter’s Daughter.
I’m reading “What the Robin Knows” which oddly enough is pretty much what the title says: how the robin (and other birds) already tells what it knows to anyone who takes the time to listen and pay attention. Who knew?!
I am currently reading The Redeemer by Jo Nesbo. Writers on Knitting is on my wish list!
Oddly enough, I’ve been re-reading The Knitting Circle 🙂
Congrats on your essay! Currently am reading “Instructions for a Heatwave” by Maggie O’Farrell.
I just finished reading “Unfamiliar Fishes” by Sarah Vowell. It was more than I had ever known about Hawaii and the way Hawaii became a state.
I am reading The Yarn Whisperer by Clara Parkes and The Night Circus is in my knitting bag. I would love to win!
I recently read Clara Parkes wonderful new book. Currently reading an ARC of Servants by Lucy Lethbridge and Curtsies and Conspiracies by Gail Carriger. I would love a copy of Knitting Yarns!
What a great book, I’ll be adding this to my collection. Right now I’m reading Cronkite by Douglas Brinkley.
Thanks,
Smiles,
I’m reading “The Fountain at St. James Court” by Sena Jeter Naslund.
I’m reading John Grisham’s new book.
“The Hare with Amber Eyes” by Edmund De Waal. Lovely family history. Even lovelier on art and the experience of creation.
Oh, that’s a haunting book. Will never look at netsuke the same way again. Or, uh, Europe.
I loved the Hare with the Amber Eyes also. I am reading The Harbormasters Daughter, a light novel but good for pre bedtime reading.
Some of my most favorite authors! Coincidentally, husband and I are on a Kingsolver bent these days…I just finished Flight Behavior and am now reading Prodigal Summer, and my husband is currently reading Lacuna!
Really love your new website!
I’m just about finished with “The Violinist’s Thumb” by Sam Kean. Awesome book about DNA that’s actually fun to read!
I am reading The Out-of -Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz. Trying to educate myself about sensory processing disorders in children. Fascinating read.
This is the Story of a Happy Marriage by Ann Patchett. Just finished the Signature of All Things, by Elizabeth Gilbert.
I’m reading I GOT SCHOOLED, with the hope that maybe this guy really does have the answer!
Reading Julia Spencer-Fleming’s new Russ Van Alstyne/ Clare Fergusson mystery, Through the Evil Days. Great sense of place and characters.
I’m reading “the TimeTraveller’s Wife” by Emily Niffenberger (I think. I am too lazy right now to get the book). And “Aerotropolis: the Way We Live Next” by John Kasarda & Greg Lindsay.
I am currently reading Days of Blood and Starlight, by Laini Taylor. And I would love to win this book!
On the tail end of ‘On Strike for Christmas’ by Sheila Roberts. It is an amusing tale of how women decide the menfolk in their lives should do all the millions of unseen things that make Christmas, well, Christmas. It is amusing and touching, and has me sort of thinking I might need to bake Christmas cookies very soon.
I would love to win – what a great cast of authors. Thanks for the opportunity!
I’m reading “Quiet” and “How Children Succeed” (or something very close – don’t have it next to me now) and am struck by the similarities between introverts and successful students in two books with fairly different paths.
I’m also reading some thrillers and murder mysteries (one of each) that my husband picked out for me at the library. It’s great fun – I never know what I’m getting. Some days he has the touch, some days he doesn’t. Some days I send him with a list. 🙂
I’m reading “The Ocean at the End of the Lane” by Neil Gaiman. And I would love to read this book on knitting stories!
I’m reading a daughter’s memoir of her parents’ lives as revolutionaries in Russia a hundred years ago: tsarist police and prisons, exile, invisible ink, disguises, and mortal danger once they got what they wanted; it’s called “Journey of the homeless” by Natalya Baranskaya, and I can’t put it down.
I reading A Rather Remarkable Homecoming by C.A. Belmont. 4th book in the series, I just finished the first three in the last month.
I’m currently reading The Monuments Men, by Robert M. Edsel. It’s a fascinating look at how so much art survived World War II. I would love another new knitting book to dive into!
I’m reading Loving Frank about Frank Lloyd Wright. Not really into it, yet.
I’m currently reading a book called Keep the Siblings, Lose the Rivalry, not sure of the author since the book is in the other room, and I’m tired. Yes, I have four children, why do you ask?
The New Midwestern Table by Amy Theilen. It’s not strange that I’m reading a cookbook is it?
I love Amy’s book so much. I grew up and learned to cook in Minnesota. Amy has captured all that I love about cooking. My favorite chapter is Potatoes and Onions. Yum!
Essays of E.B. White.
Best way for me to survive the going into the darkness that is November is to read me some E.B. White essays.
xox
I am currently reading, A Year In Provence, by Peter Mayle…just for the simple joy of his calm and witty humor.
Great book!
I’m reading Delta Wedding by Eudora Welty, very slowly. It’s an old (65-cent) paperback that somehow found its way to my bookshelf.
Reading Alice Munro’s “Dear Life” – wonderful.
I am reading The Lace Reader by Brunonia Barry. I just started it, so I am not really sure what it’s about yet.
I am reading The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. I recommend it.
Thanks for the opportunity to win a great book!
Currently reading to completely different books, IQ84 and A Discovery of Witches and loving them both. I just love getting sucked into a good book.
I’m reading Maddaddam- Margaret Atwood
Listening to: The Unbearable Lightness of Scones- Alexander McCall Smith.
I’m working my way through Eleanor Catton’s The Rehearsal while I wait patiently for the follow-up to Bowling Avenue.
I’m reading The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender. Would love to win this book!
I’m reading book 10 of the Ladies’ Number One Detective Agency series, and also the very inspirational Younger Next Year (a book about the importance of exercise, a healthy diet, and doing stuff you care about).
I just finished Matt Love’s new book, Of Walking in Rain. I can pretty much guarantee you’ve never read anything like it. But you should!
“The Fifth Assassin” by Brad Meltzer
Thanks for the chance!
Right now reading The Enchanted Life of Adam Hope, author Rhonda Riley. Magic!
I’m reading The Ice-Cold Heaven by Mirko Bonne, a fictionalized story of Ernest Shackleton, the Endurance, and an unbelievable trip through Antarctica.
I am reading One Thousand White Women:The Journals of May Dodd by Jim Fergus. This is a really good read and Knitting Yarns looks like it will be also.
I am reading big girl panties by Stephanie Evanovich. Looking forward to reading Knitting Yarns.
Reading “Just An Ordinary Day, The Uncollected Stories of Shirley Jackson”, one of my favorite writers. I especially enjoy short stories and essays.
I’m reading Carl Hiaasen’s “Flush.” (Just finished “Hoot.”) A great no-brainer for busy weeks.
East of Eden by John Steinbeck!
I am reading “The 17 Day Diet”. What more can I saw? I am optimistic!
Love reading this list! Just started Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, because I need a kick in the pants in the studio. And I’m perpetually re-reading everything Gabriel García Márquez has ever written. Time again for Innocent Eréndira. Oh, and the new Wes Anderson picture book. That’s a winner.
Dear Life by Alice Muro
I just finished re-reading Never Let Me Go, by Kazuo Ishiguro. My daytime reading (with the kids) is Sleeping Beauty, the version illustrated by Arthur Rackham. I’m moving on to Girl of the Limberlost, and Beauty and the Beast.
There are so many great suggestions here: there’s a Wes Anderson picture book?! And, “Your Brain on Knitting” sounds like a great talk.
I second DiWiscosin: If I win, will you sign my copy of the book? 🙂
Does “The Museum of Kitschy Stitches” by Stitchy McYarn Pants count?
It’s that and the tail end of “All Wound Up” by Stephanie Peral-McPhee.
Clearly I need another book about knitting. 😉
Hah! No one here is reading what I am reading — The Blood of Flowers, by Anita Amirrezvani, a novel about a woman who is gifted as a rug designer in 17th century Persia. Alas, just another tale of patriarchy, but still fascinating. And what fun to see what everyone else is reading, including some of my favorites. What a community we are!
I’m reading the new Donna Tartt, The Goldfinch!
Just at the end of When We Were The Kennedys, and while I love it and don’t want it to end, I kinda do so I can start TransAtlantic.
Love the new blog design! Right now I’m reading Countdown: Our Last, Best Hope For a Future on Earth by Alan Weisman and listening to Elizabeth Berg’s The Signature of All Things when in the car. Knitting Yarns sounds delicious.
I’ve got a stack of 7 books that I’m reviewing–not sure if they’ll all be read/written about on time! Current title in my hand is Bound in Venice, by Alessandro Marzo Magno–non-fiction about publishing in the 15th and 16th centuries, when Venice was the center of the book world. Hundreds of wonderful tidbits about the people, the time, and the place. Ah, Venice! (But now, a couple of rows on a shawl….)
I just finished “Water for Elephants.” Now working on “The Limpopo Academy of Private Detection: A No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency Novel” I love this series about the “traditionally built” detective who is so wise.
A knitting story by Jane Smiley? Must have reading.
Currently reading “The Signature of All Things” by Elizabeth Gilbert for this Friday’s book club.
Then back to Tolstoy’s “War and Peace” in the Pevear/Volokhonsky translation, only 1024 pages to go!
The Mystery of Harris Burdick. Reading and telling it with my five year old. So good.
Gone Girl. And the oldie but goody Ammie, Come Home by Barbara Michaels…..
“Identical” — Scott Turow’s latest.
“Changing my Mind” — a collection of essays by Zadie Smith.
Sheila Kitzinger’s Rediscovering Birth…
The Devils Cave by Martin Walker and the Bookman’s Tale by Charles Lovett. I love Martin Walker’s books for their French flair, wine, food and insecurities. The Bookman’s Tale remains to be seen, it’s too early to really tell. I also have Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell going….but slowly. And, because it has been my favorite book for the past 5 years, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is never far from me. And there is always room for another book. My husband doesn’t think so but I point to his boats and he gives up.
Currently reading “Fallen Women” by Sandra Dallas. Thanks for the chance to win what sounds like a great book!
The Signature of All Things, by Elizabeth Gilbert. Because it snowed in Chicago today, and I’m happy to spend time with botanists and women scientists and tropical greenhouses.
I am listening to “Wolf Hall” by Hilary Mantell and reading “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” by Annie Dillard. I would love to win a copy of Knitting Yarns–it looks like a great group of writers–thanks for including the bit from Barbara Kingsolver!
I am reading Bitter Tide by Ann Stamos. I’d love to win what sounds like a great book!
I am currently reading Die Ludwig Verschwörung (the Ludwig Conspiracy) and it’s the German answer ot the Da Vinci Code.
I’m reading Perfect Circle by Sean Stewart, and I’m listening to The Goldfinch by Donna Tart.
Currently reading The Game of Thrones: A Clash of Kings after being introduced to the series by my kids. Absolutley A-MAY-ZING!!!
That small quote from Barbara Kingsolver makes me want to start reading the book now. Such words 🙂
rereading Yanagi, The Unknown Craftsman.
Next will be Tomas Sedlacek, Economics of Good and Evil: The Quest for Economic Meaning from Gilgamesh to Wall Street
Thanks for giving us a chance to win a copy of Knitting Yarns
I am reading “Quiet: the power of introverts” by Susan Cain. Interesting comments on the fact that introverts are big internet media users. lol
I just finished The Puzzle People by Thomas E. Starzl.
Pretty heavy-memoirs of a transplant surgeon
I am finally getting around to reading The Cuckoo’s Calling by JK Rowling. In my defense, I had a concussion all summer long and was barely able to knit let alone read anything.
So sorry about your head! We have struggled with concussions too, and it can be such a slow process. Hope you’re on the mend.
Just finished John Grisham’s baseball novel, Calico Joe. A nice read, while there is a lot of baseball description a non fan can get through it easily. A good story, well written.
I just finished reading The Infatuations by Javier Marias. I’m also in the middle of Stories: All New Tales edited by Neil Gaiman.
I am reading
The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out The Window And Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson — read it!
I’m reading The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis. Can’t wait to read Knitting Yarns!
Right now I am reading King’s Mountain by Sharyn McCrumb. But I very much want to read Knitting Yarns.
Reading “a case for Solomon”
Definitely worth reading.
Currently I’m reading The Dovekeepers by Alice Hoffman, love her books and resolve to read them all! The prize book looks & sounds inspirational!
Felix Francis “Refusal”
Interesting how many of us are reading thrillers/mysteries. Does knitting go with mysteries like it does with cats?
I would love to read your essay in this book as well as the rest of it. Hoping my number comes up!
Still working on finishing The Return of the King by Tolkein.
The Time Traveler’s Guide to Elizabethan England by Ian Mortimer (because you can never have enough of all things Elizabethan or Shakespearean when your home is in a place named Stratford…)
I just finished “A Tale for the Time Being” by Ruth Ozeki. Before that, I read all of The Inspector Gamache Series by Louise Penny. Next?
Speaking Christian by Marcus Borg
Hi Ann and Co: I am reading ‘On a Farther Shore; The Life and Legacy of Rachel Carson’ by William Souder. Bill is a family friend and I’m finally getting around to reading one of his biographies; I have to say I’m learning a ton! What fun. And I hope to be reading Knitting Yarns! Thank you for the opportunity.
Reading “This Is How You Die: Stories of the Inscrutable, Infallible, Inescapable Machine of Death,” which is a truly excellent collection of short stories…but now I’m thinking I should set it aside this evening and get back to that cowl that I started ages ago and haven’t finished!
Julia Spencer-Fleming’s newest, “Through the Evil Days”
A World Too Near (Book Two Of The Entire And The Rose) by Kay Kenyon
Currently reading two rather diverse books: Dr. Sleep by Stephen King and The Yarn Whisperer by Clara Parkes.
“The Bully Pulpit” by Doris Kearns Goodwin.
I’m reading The Hunger Games. Trying to get through all 3 before the new movie comes out in a couple of weeks. My daughter says I must!
I am reading W is for Wasted by Sue Grafton, why yes, the very same Sue Grafton who has an essay in this book that I would love to win!
Am reading To End All Wars re WWI by Allan Hochschild. Well written.
I’m stalled on Ludlum’s Bourne Supremacy (too dense for long stretches) and rereading Moore’s Watchmen. Yes, it counts. . . .
Reading The Goldfinch…and one of Jennifer Chiaverini’s quilting novels. Their must be hand-craft reading at all times–Writers on Knitting sounds perfect.
Reading Equal of the Sun by Anita Amirrezvani, as I live and work in this part of the world at the mo….
I’m reading – or perhaps I might say rationing , since I’m savoring it sloooooowly – Barbara Kingsolver’s “Flight Behavior”. I’d so love to read what she says about knitting!!!
I’m deep into the recorded version of The Good Lord Bird by James McBride (read most entertainingly by Michael Boatman). Makes me look forward to my hour-plus commute. I highly recommend it.
Just finished Diana Gabaldon’s “Lord John and the Brotherhood of the Blade”. (Looking forward to the next Outlander novel in the spring!)
I’m reading the first in Nora Robert’s new trilogy, Dark Witch.
The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris by David McCullough
Hey Ann and Company,
I just finished Like Dreamers, a book about the Israeli paratroopers who liberated Jersualem, and I just started The Things They Carried, Tim O’Brien’s novel about Vietnam. I need a book about knitting to lighten things up!
I’m reading “Always the Baker, Never the Bride” which is perfect to pick up during my shoulder rehab!
I just finished reading Sandra Boynton’s Pajama Time (board book version) to my 10-month old. I haven’t started any grown-up books since finishing The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency a few weeks ago. I miss reading.
Right now, I’m reading The Whole Enchilada by Diane Mott Davidson.
I’m reading “The Graves Are Walking” right now – about the famine in IReland, cause and effect and societal issues. Fascinating, but not knitting related, I’m afraid.
Would love a copy of that book….. especially since I have just finished reading Ann Hood’s amazing book,
Comfort. Heart wrenching is an understatement.
Reading Mastering the Art of Soviet Cooking…and forward to reading Knitting Yarns!
Capital Punishment
Just started “Grain Brain” by Dr. David Perlmutter.
Collapse by Jared Diamond. So depressing!
No kidding! Whenever I start thinking we’re so evolved here in the 21st century, I remember those poor Mayans in the Yucatan peninsula. We are S C R E W E D! Keep knitting, I guess?
I’m currently reading Clara Parkes’ /The Yarn Whisperer/ and just finished Mary Robinette Kowal’s /Shades of Honey and Milk/.
Katie =^..^=
“In the summer after her husband’s death Lusa discovered lawn-mower therapy.” From Prodigal Summer, by Barbara Kingsolver. Love her!
I’ve just finished Vampires in the Lemon Grove by Karen Russell (she wrote Swamplandia). I’m not usually fond of short stories but these are so good. She is hugely talented. There is one that relates directly to our knitterly interests (silk production) and is so vivid and slightly creepy but ultimately empowering and it is stuck in my brain. Anyone else read it?
(who knew I had so much to say about it? Not me!)
Cannot wait to read this full collection after sneaking a peek at your galley this summer #nothumblebrag
I read that a couple of months ago. Very bizarre and interesting.
I’m currently reading “Jane Austen’s England’ by Roy and Leslie Adkins….a bit slow going, but a very interesting social history of England of the early 19th century.
I recently reread “No Idle Hands,” a history of knitting in America. What struck me was the long thread that connects us all back through the centuries, and feeling connected to all the woman and men who knitted not only for fashion or to keep their grandchildren in hand knitted socks, but also for strangers. Socks knitted for soldiers in wars, certainly, but also for others in need, often far away. My favorite saying is “Work is love made visible,” and that is surely why we knit. I am grateful to belong to many knitting communities, including the Big Apple Knitters Guild, where you spoke a few years ago. (I was the crazy lady with the Swiffer cover.) Our hearts encompass the whole world.
I’m reading Reign of Error by Diane Ravitch. About the vilification of public school education in the US today.
Baking with Julia by Doris Greenspan – I check this out of the library so often it jumps off the shelf into my hands!
Happy Knitting and Bon Appetit for the holidays.
I’m currently reading Getting Rid of Bradley by Jennifer Cruisie.
I just finished reading Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith, otherwise known as J.K. Rowling. I really like her main character and hope she keeps going with him. Great read!
Worsted weight lace? I’m in!
I’m reading the Question Behind the Question, for business and at the added suggestion of a few church folk. Also reading Wicked part 1 at long last….
I love love love Ann Patchett though cannot imagine her knitting…which is surely why I should win this book! Currently reading Barbara Tuchman’s book about WWI (for the upcoming centennial remembrance) – even sadder and more horrifying than have previously heard. Before this read Someone by Alice Munro (heaven) and Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand (if someone sold this as fiction we would all go “bosh…too over the top with the evil”, but it’s a true story).
Honestly, I NEVER win your contests…c’mon!
I’m finishing “Suspect” by Robert Crais. His mysteries are set in my hometown of Los Angeles. This is not great literature, but a fun, quick read. Nothing to do with knitting.
De-lurking to say I am reading three things at once. Free Range Knitter by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, The Yarn Whisperer by Clara Parkes and The Naked Sun by Isaac Asimov.
I just started reading The Book Thief. Would LOVE to win a copy of the book.
The Mouse Proof Kitchen by Saira Shah. Love the new website!
The Book Of Yarn. I need some inspiration to pick up my needles.
I just finished “The Silver Star” by Jeannette Walls. Thanks for the chance.
I’m rereading Elizabeth Peters’ “Seeing a Large Cat,” it’s a good commute read. I think she may have been a knitter too, or at least she makes Amelia Peabody Emerson knit a scarf in one of the books in that series.
I’ve just finished Life After Life by Kate Atkinson and am about to start Billy Linn’s Long Halftime Walk. I’m also listening to Neverwhere, by Neil Gaiman (narrated by Neil Gaiman too). Listening to Neverwhere is what has gotten me to finally put together my 18-square Mitered Cross Blanket, 3-needle bind-off and all!
Coincidentally, right now I am reading Knitwitch on my Kindle. I swear I read things that aren’t knitting-related!
In such august company I hesitate to admit I’m reading the new “Nikki Heat” novel by “Richard Castle.” I’m on Percocet! I just had ACL surgery! It had to be something light … 🙂
I’m reading “As She Left It: A Novel” by Catriona McPherson, the latest in my apparent Brit phase, having just inhaled several Kate Atkinsons. But “The Yarn Whisperer” is on my dining room table, coming up next.
just finished Billy Crystal’s autobiography. am currently reading a cookbook where you cheat with box mixes. next I wanna re-read The Great Gatsby.
I just started “The Panic Virus” by Seth Monokin, which is not exactly light evening reading, but it’s very interesting.
I am reading “The Finkler Question” by Howard Jacobson.
the View from Castle Rock by Alice Munro
I’m reading “Wool Omnibus”- a post-apocalyptic mystery (so far).
Ten Thousand Joys & Ten Thousand Sorrows: A Couple’s Journey Through Alzheimer’s.
The title says it all. It’s a good discussion-type book and is helping me deal with my father’s Alzemeimer’s.
Up next: Amy Tan’s Valley of Amazement.
For knitting fun: I’m reading Amy Herzog’s Knit to Flatter: The Only Instructions You’ll Ever Need to Knit Sweaters that make You Look Good and Feel Great – because who doesn’t want that feeling?
Up next: Poems of Color: Knitting in the Bohus Tradition by Wendy Keele
Cold Springs, by Rick Riordan
Reading Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell and Selected Stories by Alice Munro.
I’m reading “The Monster of Florence”, about a real-life unsolved serial killer in Italy. Yikes. It’s facinating, especially the parts where the police take everyone with an accusation seriously. So many people were accused and jailed, and the killer just kept killing.
I reading Marjorie Garber’s incredible “Shakespeare After All” and your blog of course!!!
Many thanks!
I am currently reading “Death Without Company” by Craig Johnson and “The Yarn Whisperer” by Clara Parks.
I can’t wait to read “Knitting Yarns”! And I’m adding “The Yarn Whisperer” to my library hold list, based on all the comments above.
Just cracked open “The Half-Known World” by Robert Boswell. Recently read his “Tumbledown” and loved it! I’m looking forward to seeing what he has to say about writing fiction.
I’m reading “The Silent Wife,” by A.S.A. Harrington. I’ve barely started, so no review yet.
Alice in Wonderland on paper and Gone with the Wind on audio. Might be time for something from some of my favourite contemporary authors.
Tinkers by Paul Harding
Reading Dragonfly in Amber by Diana Gabaldon and listening to Monster Hunter International (my husband talked me into it).
“The Ocean at the End of the Lane” by Neil Gaiman
I’m reading “Before I Go to Sleep” by SJ Watson.
I am reading Seeing Things by Oliver Postgate.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot and The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith, because one at a time just isn’t my style. Plus Hatchet, by Gary Paulsen, with the kids.
I’m on New Yorker catch-up patrol, but juuuust finished Middlesex, by Jeffrey Eugenides. It was exactly as wonderful as everybody said.
How ironic! Barbara Kingsolver’s “Flight Behavior”.
I am reading Cobweb Bride by Vera Nazarian, and I highly recommend it!
“The Four Agreements” for my women’s group at my church. Agreement 3 -don’t make assumptions(communicating clearly can help avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama) and 4 -always do your best ( your best will change from moment to moment) . Both could apply to my knitting, I think.
I’m reading The Recognitions by William Gaddis – how did I miss this one?
I hope I’m not too late!! I wish so badly I was reading a knitting book….it’s my passion but I am in school so I am reading a book on mechanical ventilation in patients with ARDS. Ugh. I barely knit 2 rows a day these days…it’s still my sanity though. I love reading your website ladies and the new look of it is just divine!
I know I am too late, but alas and alack!, I had to work late, and I just had to comment. This post reminds me of when I used to read EZ’s books more for the anecdotes than the patterns, and of course, there are all the Yarn Harlots’ wonderful books of essays. I bet this book is fabulous! Right now, I happen to be reading a cool little novel, Malavita, by Tonino Benaquista. It’s about a Sopranos-like family who is in the witness protection program in France, funny and full of action. I hope it gets made into a movie!
From Lark Rise to Candleford, during breakfast. I have an 8-year-old, a 5-month-old, a husband, and a full-time job. Breakfast is my sanctuary–tea and toast with peanut butter, and something to read.
“A Little Princess”, by Frances Hodgson Burnett. It’s a childhood favorite of mine, and the first snow always makes me nostalgic.
I am reading the inferno. Hope I win this book!
Currently re-reading (again again again) “Thursday Next – First Among Sequels” by Jasper Fforde. British sci-fi, very fun. Today I bought Allie Brosh’s new book, “Hyperbole and a Half” – same title as her hilarious/sad/bizarre/real blog.
Oops – too late! Oh well, at least you have a couple more books on your “to read” list. 🙂 Although, if you’re like me, you don’t need any help with it.
I am reading The Improbable Shepherd
Lee Child’s Without Fail, aka Jack Reacher #5. It is a page turner, but no knitting whatsoever. Thank you!
I am reading a Barbara Kingsolver – ‘Fight Behaviour’ which I am loving. I also love the idea that she is a knitter. Knitting Yarns is on my Christmas wish list regardless – I am glad to know it has been published, thanks for posting about that!
I have three books checked out from the library (one on CD so I can listen while I knit) and they are all by Mary Roach: Spook, Packing for Mars, and Stiff. On hold are Second Nature by Michael Pollan and Illness as Metaphor by Susan Sontag. If I don’t win, I will make sure my library buys a copy. 😉
Currently reading “The Seasons on Henry’s Farm” by Terra Brockman. Henry is her brother. She’s a lovely writer. A beautiful tribute to the land, to families, and to the growth of all things.
This last week, I spent several days at the hospital, while my father was ill. Knitting sustained me through the process. And it connected me to a stranger in the waiting room whoIi gave yarn and needles to, and the rabbi who visited with us and then led the funeral, and to the new life ahead both for my mother as well as the great-grandchildren due this spring, who we shopped for at a new knitting store a few days after the funeral. Bless you, knitting.
Hello,
Just finished Barbara Kingsolver’s Flight Behavior. Fantastic read, poetic and meaningful and full of insight into the meaning of the life we are creating here on earth.
Bless you and Thanks!
My daughter and I just finished listening to “Happy, Happy, Happy” by Phil Robertson and we just attended the book signing last night for “Miss Kay’s Duck Cammanders Cookbook”. I’m also listening to “The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie” by Alan Bradley. Also, “The Gendered Society” for my sociology of sex and gender course – actually very interesting.
Reading Doctor Sleep by Stephen King
I read this post, and quickly commented on it on Monday. Just today, though, I finally sat down and carefully read the comments section, checking each title/description that intrigued me, first on Amazon, and then in my local public library catalog! I look forward to them all. Thanks, everyone! Oh, and Knitting Yarns is a definite immediate purchase. Yay!
I’m reading MARCH by Geraldine Brooks. It’s the story of the father in Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott. Mr Alcott is off to war,to minister to the wounded. His experiences affect his post war life. Loosely based on the Alcotts’ Civil War true experiences.