Harper Paperbacks

In the wake of the pandemic, lifelong knitter Peggy Orenstein distracted herself from life’s adversities by making a sweater—from scratch. She sheared the sheep, collected its wool, cleaned it, dyed it, spun it and made a sweater. As she recounts this, she reveals her grief over her mother’s passing, her deep concerns for her father and her fears for her college-bound daughter. Orenstein shares the intricacies of fabric crafts, providing readers with a rich understanding of the history and significance of these age-old traditions. She also educates readers on how the act of spinning is woven into everything from myths to metaphors. This story is more than a memoir. It shows us the creativity of women across time, expressing their art through craft—and it’s a thoroughly delightful and enlightening read.