8 Fiction Books About Knitting to Add to Your Reading List
I love to knit and I love to read so I’m combining two of my loves to embark on a journey through the pages of fiction books that celebrate the art of knitting. I have read some of these and some are on my TBR list.
#1 The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs
Set in New York City, “The Friday Night Knitting Club” follows the lives of a diverse group of women who come together every week to knit, chat, and share their joys and sorrows. As they knit scarves and sweaters, they also knit together the threads of their lives, forming bonds that endure through trials and triumphs. Jacobs skillfully intertwines the art of knitting with themes of friendship, motherhood, and the pursuit of dreams, making this novel a heartwarming read for knitters and non-knitters alike.
#2 The Knitting Circle by Ann Hood
In “The Knitting Circle,” Ann Hood explores the healing power of knitting in the face of loss and grief. After the tragic death of her young daughter, Mary Baxter finds solace in a knitting group where she meets a cast of characters who have also experienced profound loss. Through their shared love of knitting, they find a way to mend their broken hearts and forge new connections. Hood’s poignant portrayal of grief and resilience resonates deeply, making this novel a touching tribute to the transformative nature of creativity and community.
#3 The Shop on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber
In the heart of Seattle lies a quaint little yarn store known as A Good Yarn, a sanctuary of creativity and hope curated by Lydia Hoffman. For Lydia, this cozy haven symbolizes more than just a business venture; it embodies her aspirations for a fresh start, liberated from the shadows of cancer, and a chance at newfound love. Within the welcoming embrace of A Good Yarn, Lydia imparts the art of knitting to eager novices with the inaugural class focusing on crafting a baby blanket, drawing together a diverse trio of women, each with their own personal struggles and aspirations. As these four women, united by the timeless craft of knitting, come together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and mutual understanding. Through shared laughter, tears, and dreams, they forge unexpected bonds of friendship and acceptance, finding solace and strength in the communal threads that connect them.
#4 The Beach Street Knitting Society and Yarn Club by Gil McNeil
In this charming novel, Jo Mackenzie finds herself at a crossroads after the sudden death of her husband. Seeking a fresh start for herself and her two young sons, she moves to a seaside village and discovers a quirky knitting group that meets in a local yarn shop. As Jo learns to knit and forms bonds with her fellow knitters, she begins to unravel the knots of grief and find hope for the future. With its picturesque setting and endearing characters, “The Beach Street Knitting Society and Yarn Club” is a delightful tale of love, laughter, and second chances.
#5 Close Knit: A Novel by Jenny Colgan
In the far-flung reaches of Scotland’s northernmost islands, where the rugged coastline meets the vast expanse of the North Sea, resides Gertie MacIntyre, who finds solace and camaraderie among the women of her beloved knitting circle. In the quaint whitewashed cottages that dot their remote town, where familiarity reigns supreme, the knitting circle serves as a lifeline—a sanctuary of shared secrets, laughter, and unwavering support amidst the long, dark winters and the isolation of their island home. Yet, amidst the rhythmic click of needles, Gertie finds herself pondering the trajectory of her own life.
#6 Boys Don’t Knit (in Public) by T.S. Easton
When 17-year-old Ben Fletcher finds himself in trouble with the law after a mishap involving a crossing guard and a bottle of Martini & Rossi, he’s given an ultimatum: improve his social skills, pick up a hobby, and undertake community service to steer clear of further probation. Opting for a knitting class over his father’s mechanic workshop, Ben envisions a glamorous instructor adored by all the boys. To his dismay, reality strikes, and he finds himself faced with a less-than-ideal scenario. Nevertheless, he persists, discovering a hidden talent for knitting that not only surprises him but also provides solace from his anxieties and worries. Navigating the complexities of teenage life, Ben must now juggle his newfound passion with keeping it under wraps from his friends, his crush, and his soccer-obsessed father. As he unravels the threads of his double life, Ben realizes that sometimes the most unexpected hobbies can lead to unexpected joys.
#7 Real Men Knit by Kwana Jackson
After the unexpected passing of their beloved foster-turned-adoptive mother, Mama Joy, Jesse Strong and his brothers are faced with the daunting task of preserving her legacy—their Harlem knitting haven, Strong Knits. Enter Kerry Fuller, a dedicated part-time employee harboring a longtime crush on Jesse. When she overhears his fervent desire to save the shop, she steps up to lend her expertise. Together, they embark on a journey to revitalize Strong Knits, blending tradition with innovation to cater to a new era.
#8 The Friday Night Knitting Club Knit Two by Kate Jacobs
In the eagerly anticipated sequel to the bestselling novel, “The Friday Night Knitting Club,” the vibrant community of knitters at Manhattan’s beloved knitting store, founded by Georgia Walker, returns to share in life’s triumphs and trials. Amidst the stitches of their ongoing projects—a cozy afghan, delicate baby booties, and an elegant wedding coat—the knitters find solace and strength in each other. Through the threads of their stories, they unravel the intricate patterns of motherhood, marriage, friendship, and the resilience required to weather life’s surprises.
Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or simply drawn to the cozy allure of yarn, these books invite you to unravel the threads of imagination and embark on a journey through the world of knitting. So pick up your needles, grab a skein of yarn, and dive into these enchanting tales that weave together the magic of storytelling and the warmth of handmade crafts.