book chat - Plant Parenting

Plant Parenting: Easy Ways to Make More Houseplants, Vegetables, and Flowers

by 

Leslie F. Halleck

Expected publication: June 11th 2019 by Timber Press

Various methods of propagation are discussed along with when each method would be preferred. Handy charts are included for determining which plants can be propagated in which ways, ideal temperatures for seed germination for various popular plants and common plant pests and diseases. I appreciated that the author includes not only products sold specifically for plants, but also includes many repurposed items that do the job just as well. Each propagation method is covered clearly along with illustrative photos. This would be an excellent resource for a gardener or houseplant enthusiast.

Thank you to Timber Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review. 

book chat - Beginner's Guide to Colorwork Knitting

Beginner's Guide to Colorwork Knitting: 16 Projects and Techniques to Learn to Knit with Color

by Ella Austin

Expected publication: April 2nd 2019 by Sewandso

This book would be great for the knitter wanting to jump into colorwork as well as the more seasoned knitter looking to try something new. Projects begin simply with stripes, only requiring the changing of yarn to create the colorwork. As the reader progresses through the book, the difficulty of the projects increases allowing the knitter to build on their skills. Colorwork directions are written as well as charted. Other knitting skills can be built as well through the projects, such as steeking with the Steeked Mug Cozy. New skills needed are clearly illustrated in writing as well as through the accompanying photos. The 16 projects cover all the basics of colorwork including stripes, slipped stitches, stranded colorwork, intarsia, double knitting, modular knitting and entrelac along with a lesson on color theory. This is a great introduction to colorwork!

Thank you to F+W Media and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review. 

book chat - Coffeehouse Knits

Coffeehouse Knits by Kerry Bogert, Expected publication: March 31st 2019 by Interweave

Another great knitting book from Interweave! There is a nice selection of patterns here with a little something to suit just about any knitter. Included are designs for sweaters, scarves and shawls, cowls, a hat, mittens and socks. I was initially excited to see the wide range of sweater sizes included, but quickly realized it was only certain sweaters. A couple of the sweater designs go up to a 60/63" bust, though I noticed at least one only sized into the low 40s so if this is a concern, you might want to check this book out from your local library first to be sure the design you're interested in is written for your size or you think it might be up- or down-sized utilizing your own skills and experience. Multiple well-lit photographs are included to show details well, always appreciated. Knitting patterns all seem simple enough to be worked on during know nights without concern of making errors. Interspersed with the designs are stories centered around knitting which is a nice departure from just knitting patterns.

Thank you to F+W Media and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review. 

book chat - The Natural Apothecary

Today, I'm sharing three books by Penny Stanway, Expected publication: March 19th 2019 by Nourish.

The Natural Apothecary: Baking Soda 

This is a good resource for those looking for more natural remedies for cleaning and health. I've been cleaning with baking soda and vinegar for years and this book has given me more ideas for using baking soda.

The Natural Apothecary: Lemons

Another good resource for anyone looking for more natural remedies for health, beauty and cleaning. Recipes and instructions for use are included along with advice on buying or growing your own lemons.

The Natural Apothecary: Apple Cider Vinegar

Another good resource for anyone interested in using more natural remedies to get and stay healthy, though many of the health claims are anecdotal or based on small studies. Recipes and instructions for use for healthy, beauty and cleaning are included along with instruction for choosing premade or even making your own apple cider vinegar.

Thank you to Nourish and Netgalley for the opportunity to read these books in exchange for my honest reviews.

book chat - Rediscovering Travel

Rediscovering Travel: A Guide for the Globally Curious

by 

Seth Kugel,

 

Kyle Tait (Narrator)

Published December 12th 2018 by HighBridge Audio

This probably falls somewhere between a 3 and a 4 star read for me. I agree with a lot of what the author has to say about seeking out the things that are of particular interest to you rather than ticking off a list of "must sees" in an area that maybe wouldn't make your list otherwise. As a woman, I wouldn't however feel comfortable taking a lot of the chances Kugel takes while traveling. At any rate, I found this to definitely be worth a listen and inspiring for future travels.

book chat - East Meets Vegan

I love that there are so many great vegan cookbooks to choose from these days. I especially love when one truly stands out from the pack!

East Meets Vegan by Sasha Gill, Expected publication: March 5th 2019 by The Experiment

Oh my. A whole book of Asian recipes that are all vegan? Yes, please! There are recipes from India, Thailand, Singapore & Malaysia, China and Japan, making for a huge variety of foods to tempt the home cook. The accompanying photos are very well done. There are so many recipes here I want to try. I'll definitely be adding a copy of this one to my permanent collection when it's published!

Thank you to The Experiment and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review. 

book chat - Living Decor

Living Decor: Design Tips and Home Projects Featuring Botanicals

by 

Maria Colletti

Expected publication: March 5th 2019 by Cool Springs Press

This is a well put together guide to using plants to enhance your home's style and decor. Many popular plants are covered here along with many the average plant lover may not recognize. Colletti discusses style points as well as care tips. I highly appreciated the inclusion of a section on having plants along with cats and dogs. A short list of toxic plants is included in addition to a (clickable in the digital version) link to the ASPCA site with a more inclusive list. Sharing my home currently with a kitten has definitely changed my plant decor options (not to mention making watering more "fun"). =) The author discusses many options for planters/pots and where to find them. The planter chosen can add a bit of interest or whimsy or allow the plant itself to draw interest. This book has given me more ideas for adding hanging plants and terrariums - both safer options with a very curious kitten. Projects are included for a living chandelier, terrariums, framed moss art and various table decor which are explained well in writing as well as with illustrative photos. This book would be a wonderful resource for those desiring more than just a plant on a shelf.

Thank you to Quarto Publishing Group - Cool Springs Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.