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Hi Reader, My friends and family know that I love crafting almost as much as I love reading. If there's not a book in my hand, it might be because I'm holding knitting needles. (I also find knitting is great for soothing my ADHD, especially when I have to sit still and listen for long periods of time.) So, why has it taken me so long to create a children's book list of stories that feature knitting, sewing, quilting, and weaving? I had so much fun pulling together this list of picture books and chapter books! Many of the stories show how crafting can be used to convey culture, history, generosity, and a sense of community. You'll find stories like these on the list: 🪡 a mother and son who scavenge fabric together, creating beautiful patchwork clothes that make him feel like a prince despite their poverty. 👵🏿a girl who lives in a community where quilting has an incredibly important history designing her very first quilt under her grandmother's careful instruction. 🧶a laugh-out-loud story of a grandmother who has to flee her boisterous grandkids so she can get their winter sweaters made. 🕷️ a modern day Anansi story about what is lost when people turn to machine-made kente cloth.
Happy reading, Rebekah P.S. While we're on the topic of crafting and community, I'd love for you to follow my new Etsy shop, Knit for Justice. I donate at least 10% from every sale to mutual aid and social justice causes. I just added some lightweight spring fashion scarves and shawls, with more spring and summer items to come! Rebekah Gienapp (she/her/hers) | rebekahgienapp.com | Connect on Instagram | Coffees for Gaza | |
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