The other day I was in our local bookshop and I came upon this book. I decided to treat myself, because, well, just because. That evening, I got into bed and read the book cover to cover, like a novel. I have always admired Barbara Albright, and have always been curious about her because she lived in Wilton, CT, one town over from where I live.
Beyond the beautiful projects and photos, there are pages and pages of information about all natural fibers from llamas, sheep, goats, bunnies and more, plus a wide range of plant fibers. It's fun to read about the entrepreneurs who are producing fiber, some were new to me, some like old friends, Peace Fleece, Morehouse Merino and on and on.
This book combines patterns, with useful information about fiber and fiber people, making it a nice addition to my knitting library.
It's so sad to think about the passing of Barbara Albright. She died in 2006 at age 51, from a brain tumor, leaving behind her husband and two children. There is a lovely page in the back of the book that lists her many publishing accomplishments in the knitting and food industries, her books leaving a lasting legacy to her loves of fiber and food.
One thing I did not find in the book...a project idea for the yarn pictured above, a 50/50 wool/possum blend that my husband recently brought back from New Zealand.
It's awfully sad to think that this was her last book, but every review I've read so far has praised it to the skies! So I'm glad she left behind such a good legacy.
Posted by: Beth S. | May 03, 2007 at 07:43 AM
Hmmm. Who knew you could use opossum fur for yarn? Maybe the next time one comes visiting I could attempt to collect some fur to spin?! (By the way, kudos to your husband for bringing you home yarn from his business trip.)
Very nice book review, MB.
Posted by: Annie | May 03, 2007 at 11:24 AM
It's a treat when I buy a book for myself too. If you do find a pattern for the possum blend, will you only wear it at night? :)
Posted by: Diane E | May 03, 2007 at 02:20 PM
I agree with Beth, she did leave behind an incredible legacy. Sad when someone is taken from the world so soon :(
Posted by: Stacie | May 03, 2007 at 02:29 PM
That sounds so intriguing - so I looked it up - here's a link:
http://www.merinopossum.co.nz/patterns.html
can't wait to see what you do with the yarn
Posted by: lillium | May 03, 2007 at 08:04 PM
A chum came home from New Zealand with a sweater knit with opossum. It was beautiful and very warm. You will put it to good use!
Posted by: Jill | May 04, 2007 at 03:58 PM