Stoller, D: Stitch 'n Bitch Crochet

Stoller's "Stitch 'N Bitch" and "Stitch 'N Bitch Nation" have become icons of the knitting craze: every hip young needleworker has at least one of them next to the yarn stash. Now, she uses the same approach that made her knitting books so successful in this entree to sexed-up hookwork that takes pains to show crocheting isn't for grandma anymore. Stoller provides everything short of the hook and yarn a crafter will need to learn how to crochet. From a history of the craft to mind-bogglingly complete instructions and dozens of charted and explained patterns (the majority of which are for women's clothing and accessories--there are no afghans here), it's all presented in Stoller's bright, witty style and accompanied by cheery color photographs. Beginners will like the easy construction of the "Stripes (and Stripes) Forever Scarf," and intermediate crocheters will enjoy whipping up a "Cupcake," a purple sweater confection. Experienced crocheters have patterns here too, such as the astonishing lace "Go For Baroque" sweater. This latest entry into the "Stitch 'N Bitch" canon is sure to be another bestseller.