Pocket Book of Crochet

Founder of the UK company Wool Couture, Gelder (Bonnie the Cow & Friends: 20 Loveable Animals & Birds To Crochet Using Chunky Yarn) writes a charming introduction to the craft. Basics of yarn (weight, sizes, and label-reading fundamentals) are clearly explained as are basics of crochet hooks and crochet terminology. The book is written for a UK audience, but an American “translation” is provided, along with gentle reminders that UK crochet terms are peppered throughout. The sections on technique are divided into three levels of difficulty, but this sometimes feels haphazard and, at times, out of sync with how people traditionally learn the craft. The good news is that the book includes projects at the end of every section that will test newly learned skills and stitches. There is even a bonus selection that covers the classic granny square. Gelder is encouraging throughout the book and takes a conversational tone. The book’s drawings, however, are more decorative than instructive and do not enhance the written instructions.