This unique blend of memoir and history takes “a multi-layered look at jigsaw puzzles . . . charming [and] fascinating” (Publishers Weekly, starred review). Award-winning author Margaret Drabble weaves her own story into a history of games, in particular jigsaws, which have offered her and many others relief from melancholy and depression. Alongside curious facts and discoveries—for example, that the 1929 stock market crash was followed by a boom in puzzle sales—Drabble introduces us to her beloved Auntie Phyl, and describes childhood visits to the house in Long Bennington on the Great North Road, their first trip to London together, the books they read, and the jigsaws they completed. With penetrating sketches of her parents, siblings, and children, Drabble shares her thoughts on the importance of childhood play, art and writing, aging and memory. And she does so with her customary intelligence, energy, and wit.

"One of the most useful books to cover the whole of the field...Mr. Ford is to be congratulated on having produced a work that should stand the test of time." Carpet Review Weekly

"Bring the magic of Disney to your knitting needles with this official book of knitting patterns inspired by classic Disney characters and films! Filled with gorgeous photography and sprinkled with fun behind-the-scenes facts, this deluxe book includes 28 patterns for scarves, socks, sweaters, toys, blankets, and more -- not to mention a few iconic costume replicas. Take a trip to Never Land with an adorable Tinker Bell doll. Celebrate the circle of life with a vibrant colorwork sweater based on The Lion King. Channel your inner sea witch with a wicked replica of Ursula's iconic seashell necklace. PRojects range from simple patterns to more complex projects for knitters of all skill levels and include sizing from extra small through 6XL. It's the ultimate book off Disney magic for knitters everywhere!" -- Back cover.

"This book is published in conjunction with an exhibition organized and presented by the Rubin Museum of Art, March 25 through August 22, 2011."

Looks at the designs, motifs, and patterns of weaving patterns of rugs from the Middle East and Central Asia.

Afghanistan, 1977. Kanishka Nurzada, the son of a leading carpet seller, falls in love with his friend Maihan, with whom he shares his first kiss at the age of sixteen. Their romance must be kept secret in a nation where the death penalty is meted out to those deemed to be kuni, a derogatory term for gay men. And when war comes to Afghanistan, it brings even greater challenges-and danger-for the two lovers. From the cultural melting pot of Kabul to the horrors of an internment camp in Pakistan, Kanishka's arduous journey finally takes him to the USA in the desperate search for a place to call home-and the fervent hope of reuniting with his beloved Maihan. But destiny seems to have different plans in store for him. Intimate and powerful, The Carpet Weaver is a sweeping tale of a young gay man's struggle to come of age and find love in the face of brutal persecution.