I have read this book a few times already since it was published, as it has been on display at the library. I like the contrast of the yarn with the colorless landscape, white snow and dark objects. The yarn livens the scene, including the people. The endless box of yarn is a great concept, as it must seem endless to those who watch people sit everywhere knitting and knitting. It isn't enough that everyone have a sweater; objects and animals are covered with knitting as well. A couple nice touches are the yarn as a dog's leash and the sweaters of a row of people connected by the yarn.

The story evokes several thoughts. Can the girl stop knitting, or is she compelled to continue? Does she think of it as a challenge that she cover everyone and everything in sight? How do the inhabitants feel about their changing village?

The story is mostly whimsical, with messages of giving and challenges. The setting has a historical look, with a touch of fairy tale.

related-yarn, knitting, giving, humorous stories
RL=1st-2nd, mostly read aloud to toddlers-K