WOVEN OF THE WORLD, by Katey Howes and Dinara Mirtalipova, Chronicle Books, Feb. 7, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 5-8)
A young girl learning to weave learns the history of the loom in Woven of the World, by Katey Howes and Dinara Mirtalipova.
This picture book shares the history and practice of weaving through the centuries and around the world, as imagined by a young weaver learning her craft. Her family’s weaving practice helps her feel connected to the past and hopeful for the future. It shows her that each of us is a tapestry: a unique, rich, and beautifully interwoven combination of traits and traditions, with a pattern that is still emerging. —Synopsis provided by Chronicle Books
Woven of the World celebrates the both the technical skills and cultural traditions associated with weaving. With each turn of the page, readers are introduced to different points in history and world cultures ranging from the nomadic Fulani of West Africa to the Coastal Salish of North America, and from Uzbekistan to Peru to Egypt.
Author Katey Howe’s lyrical text is full of imagery and heart: “It sings of flaxen fibers spun by fingers deft and proud — threads destined from a dancer’s robe of for a pharaoh’s shroud.” It’s a joy to read aloud.
Equally lovely are Dinara Mirtalipova’s intricate illustrations. Her folk-art style is perfect for exploring time and place.
Excellent backmatter includes a section weaving tools and a more in-depth look at textiles. Author and illustrator notes round out written content.
Woven of the World is one of those books that children and adults will equally enjoy. It would be a great addition to a classroom or family library.
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