How to Knit a Monster, written by Annemarie van Haeringen, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Student Reviewer: Lauren K.
Summary: The book “How to Knit a Monster” by Annamarie van Haeringen is a joyful tale about a small white goat, Greta, who loves to knit. Greta often finds herself getting so lost in both her work and in daydreaming that she conjures up elaborate creations make of yarn. Many of these beautiful creations take the form of animals. When Greta is challenged by fellow goat Mrs. Goat, she accidentally creates a dangerous monster who gobbles Mrs. Goat up! When Greta is faced with vicious animal will she be able to use her incredible knitting abilities to overcome this stressful situation? Will she be able to save Mrs. Goat from doom?

Straight Talk for Librarians: This would be a great picture book to read to children for fun. Greta also shows great courage in the face of danger, which is always a great theme to introduce to children at any age. She also displays great maturity when after she is challenged by Mrs. Goat. Even though she was criticized that she was not a good nor fast knitter, Greta was a bigger person and stayed true to herself and her passion by believing in herself when someone else did not. This is an important lesson for younger readers because it is vital in life to be able to be confident in yourself. This picture book also introduces a literary device of onomatopoeia through the sound that Greta’s knitting needles clicking together. I think that this would be a great way to introduce the different aspects of Literature in an easy and fun way. The pictures within the book are also very interesting and the simplistic yet beautiful illustrations not overwhelming to look at. They were created through the use of watercolour and india ink which creates beautiful colours and textures that are very fun to look at.