I feel very fortunate to be given the chance to tell you about a wonderful little book that's receiving lots of buzz. It's quite a charming, albeit quirky, story which even the NY Times Sunday Book Review thought worth a mention.
The author, Mac Bennett, shares the tale of a dreary little town which is changed by the generosity of one little girl, Annabelle, who finds magic in a box. The "yarn" continues from there as Annabelle knits for everyone she can from this one treasured box.
As with any good tale, this story has a villain, an evil, greedy archduke, who fancies lovely clothes. But as you might guess, things don't work at has he'd planned.
While the story is to the point, and the writing is spare, it evokes the message of Annabelle's care and how she changed her world with two little sticks.
The illustrations by Jon Klassen are a perfect complement to quiet little story, as he includes whimsical detail, which highlight the colorful impact Annabelle's box of yarn has on her community.
I love how all the people are then linked together.
Posted by: Kitten | February 11, 2012 at 09:39 AM
So sweet.
Posted by: CindyCindy | February 11, 2012 at 10:01 AM
I think it looks like a great book.
Posted by: Carole | February 11, 2012 at 10:25 AM
Thank you for the reminder! I was planning to send some children's books to my niece and I think I will add this to the order!
Posted by: LoriG | February 11, 2012 at 10:26 AM
Very sweet. Two sticks definitely can change your world.
Posted by: Cheryl S. | February 11, 2012 at 10:32 AM
How dear.
Posted by: Suzy | February 11, 2012 at 10:49 AM
And now I know what to get my niece for her birthday - thank you! :)
Posted by: Chris | February 11, 2012 at 12:10 PM
So very sweet and dear. I need to pick this book up for Gracie, she'll love all aspects of the story.
Thank you, Margene!
Posted by: marianne | February 11, 2012 at 12:20 PM
I've seen several posts about this book... but your post and spirit are the first that make me want to go out and buy it. Thanks for sharing such a lovely story of our craft.
Posted by: Jennifer | February 11, 2012 at 01:33 PM
I sent this book to my 2 1/2 -year-old granddaughter. Not only does she enjoy it, but my 35-year-old son really loves it! After he read the book to his daughter, he even posted a link on Facebook for it!
Posted by: Nancy H | February 11, 2012 at 03:44 PM
Ooh, thanks for sharing. I will have to get that to share with Odessa!
Posted by: Birdsong | February 11, 2012 at 06:03 PM
So charming! I love the illustrations!
Posted by: Kym | February 12, 2012 at 07:16 AM
Never underestimate the power of sticks and string---and children's literature. Thanks for the review!
Posted by: Ann in the UP | February 12, 2012 at 09:20 AM
ooo, i've got to find this!
Posted by: jennifer | February 13, 2012 at 12:53 PM
Love it...I know 4 little ones who might enjoy the lesson as much as their (Knit)Nana.
:)
Posted by: Knitnana | February 14, 2012 at 11:17 AM
made me pull out my sock overs and make six pairs of baby booties.
Posted by: Jes | February 14, 2012 at 05:37 PM
What a cute book! I loved his _I Want My Hat Back_, will definitely have to read this!
Posted by: Heather | February 21, 2012 at 10:01 AM