Books and sewing- challenges both

I went into my local Collins book store last week- I did have a voucher to spend but of course didn't take the names of the books I really wanted to buy- a mixture of craft and children's fiction.  But the staff were setting up a new display.  One book- well retro book caught my eye- hey I said I've got that book at home- I read it in my first year of high school- in fact a childhood friend recently discovered my name in the book and the book on her bookshelf and returned it to me- many, many years after she had borrowed it.

I was really surprised to see this book reprinted.  It poses the question- is this what readers want now- a mystery, a step up from Enid Blyton?  As writers are we providing this?

I also wanted to share a craft from scraps and recycled material( thanks Janeen for those cloth serviettes).  I belong to a craft group called Knotty Ladies and they are working towards a market for craft from recycled material for Christmas and charity.

The pattern can be found here.wrap around doll

Texture, antique books

As well as beautiful architecture there is also wonderful living sculptures like this vine. I love texture such as this.
I had such a great time delving into atmosphere with the State library children's collection that I went seeking an antique book of my very own. I found in Magill road a book published in 1876- a little bit later than the period I wanted, but wonderful and all for the princely sum of $4.00. It's called 'Favourite stories for the very young.' I also found 'First year of scientific knowledge.' I like the palm size book, the hard cover, the delicate pages. 'The first year of scientific knowledge' boasts that it sold 500,000 copies in France over 3 years! I love the inclusive way the author introduces knowledge- here's an excerpt from the first page:
'Animals, I am well sure , interest you more than plants and much more than stones. For animals grow, and move about; they feel, and manifest will; they live and they die.'

I have achieved much in this residency- shortly I'll list a tally. Today I am off to the art gallery with Elizabeth and Janeen.