I really enjoy the fact that I can both knit and crochet. My sister taught me to knit. My mother taught me to crochet. My crochet skills were very basic but over the years grew with more complex and challenging projects. Even so there were some areas that were more trial and error than based on actual proficiency.

That is why I tackled THE CROCHET ANSWER BOOK. At first glance it looks like its target audience is the novice crocheter but I was amazed at the amount of hints and tips that I gleaned from the pages by Edie Eckman. Eckman's philosophy is simple -- a confident crocheter is a happy productive one. .

THE CROCHET ANSWER BOOK is a reference book for the many facets of the craft.

Eckman acknowledges the amount of information available on the internet but reminds us that a picture is worth a thousand words. In CROCHET ANSWER BOOK she illustrates every concept she discusses and the extra bonus is that the techniques are shown for both right handed and left handed crafters.

I'll share with you two of my most favorite hints. Number one under tools to carry in your project bag was listed a latch hook to help weave short or difficult ends -- pure genius. Number two concerned working with slippery yarns such as ribbons Eckman suggests weaving the yarn on a diagonal -- first in one direction and then back in opposite -- again a wonderful insightful solution to a rather common problem. Both of these suggestions will help knitters as well as crocheters -- another bonus to this book.

To the knitters out there THE CROCKET ANSWER BOOK is a valuable addition to your craft library. Keep in mind all the times edging and decorating is done with crochet hooks. Not to worry THE CROCHET ANSWER BOOK includes edging too.

For those crocheters who want to design their own projects Edie Eckman provides a detailed plan on how to size, compute stitches and compare possible yarn choices.

THE CROCHET ANSWER BOOK by Edie Eckman is a one stop shopping experience for anyone who wants to learn how to crochet or hone their skills. THE CROCHET ANSWER BOOK is priced just right for all crafters.