I’ve gotten a lot of knitting AND reading done this last week. I’m working on this book that was recommended to me, and I think it will be some of Silje’s required reading for this next fall. It’s really a profound book, about a boy entering middle school. He had been homeschooled all of his life because he had such a severe face deformity that his parents were worried about bullying. He got to the point academically where his parents decided to put him in a private school, and his view of that transition is documented in this book.
We are never told exactly what is wrong with his face, and no picture is ever given. He tells the readers to imagine the worst, and then know it’s even worse than that. Really, he sees himself as a very ordinary boy, but as he points out, he is the only one who has that view. This book is heartbreaking, profound, simple, and one that I believe will leave a lasting impact.
I’m working on my “Cozy Morning Sweater” pattern that has been on my brain for a few months now. It’s already had one hiccup, but I’m back on track now. I’m anxious to see how this one turns out. Right now I’m just cruising along from the bottom up. This is in Brooklyn Tweed Loft, in “foothills” and “bird book.” I had to force myself to try some new colors because the first 2 colors I tried with Brooklyn Tweed were so beautiful that I didn’t even want to leave them. These greens are so lovely, though, that I think I’ll survive. 🙂
Of course the most difficult portion of the pattern is yet ahead. That’s when we’ll really see how good my math is. Fingers are crossed.
Linking up with Ginny’s Yarn Along.
Tracey says
May 21, 2014 at 1:24 pmI have that book on my ipod, but haven’t listened to it yet so I’m glad to know you like it.
I am also glad you picked new colors to knit, those greens are just beautiful! I need to branch out in the color world, I’ve been on a purple kick lately.
Penny says
May 21, 2014 at 1:55 pmAlex’s teacher read this out loud to his class, and they did several activities about it. I haven’t read it yet, but he really enjoyed it. And your knitting is beautiful!
Almond Tea says
May 21, 2014 at 2:53 pmGorgeous knit. And wonderful book. The author just wrote a companion piece from the bully’s POV. My son’s teacher read this out loud to the class in 5th grade. He’s reading it to himself now.
Sarah says
May 21, 2014 at 11:41 pmWhew, that book sounds like an important one to read.
Gorgeous sweater, I can’t wait to see it unfold!
Amanda says
May 22, 2014 at 2:12 amThanks for the book notes. I’ve seen that book on many lists but never realized that is what it is about. Hmmm…
I also think that “bird book” is the perfect name for a tweed yarn! So very academic, and scientific, and artful at the same time! Maybe your sweater needs to have elbow patches!
Lynda says
May 22, 2014 at 4:15 amThanks so much for mentioning the book Wonder!
I am going to buy it for my 11 and 12 year old grandsons for their birthdays. And maybe even a copy for myself!
Wainwright and Wright.Co says
May 22, 2014 at 7:45 amYour yarn looks yummy! I love the colours and can’t wait to see your finished sweater.
Caz xx
wifemomknitter says
May 22, 2014 at 12:37 pmThat book sounded so good that I checked my library. Fortunately, they do have it and I’ll be reading it soon.
Lisa @ HappyinDoleValley says
May 22, 2014 at 2:49 pmThanks for mentioning your current book…sounds sad but important. Lovely yarn. 🙂
A Little Blue Dragonfly says
May 22, 2014 at 3:43 pmGorgeous knitting! I can’t wait to see the end result! 🙂
Plain and Joyful Living says
May 22, 2014 at 4:01 pmThank you for the book recommendation – and yes, that yarn is gorgeous.
ameyknits says
May 27, 2014 at 7:08 pmMy 5th grader read this in his gifted class (I think the teacher read it aloud, actually). He raved and raved about it, so I read it and then we talked about it. It really is a wonderful book. The author has a “choose kind” website, too. I think it’s one of those books that you need to read a couple of times – the first time was great, but I know I read it quickly and got sucked in. I’d like to reread it and take my time.
Grace says
May 28, 2014 at 3:28 amMy little sister had to read that book in school, she said it was the best book ever!