Monday, February 28, 2011

Freddie's Blanket

Being a mother of a new baby, I am always on the lookout for exceptional children's books.  Elise's nursery is currently stocked with all the classics- from Dr. Suess to The Very Hungry Caterpiller- she seems to have it all.  But a few weeks ago- an extra special children's book came in the mail:
It's my pleasure to introduce you to Freddie's Blanket by Joanna Johnson.  Freddie's Blanket combines two things I love: a lovely children's story (which is by the way- beautifully illustrated) and knitting patterns.  That's right- could you have a more perfect book for a child of a knitter?


I had the pleasure of meeting Joanna last year at TNNA and was so excited about her work.  Not only is she just about the sweetest person ever, she is captivating to talk to.  She shared with me all about her first book, Phoebe's Sweater.  She had an idea for a children's book with knitting patterns but couldn't get published.  Did this stop her? No way.  Her and her husband (who does the illustrations for the books) started their own publishing company- Slate Falls Press.   

 Now, less than a year later, they have already come out with their second book and are working on a third.  Talk about making your dreams a reality.  As soon as I got home from TNNA I purchased a few copies of Phoebe's Sweater for my knitterly friends and family. 

A few months ago Joanna contacted me to let me know she was working on her second book, and asked for permission to use the French Press Felted Slippers as illustration inspiration- here's a sneak peak:

Can you tell what Mama Platypus is wearing on her feet(there are more throughout the book- you'll have to pick up a copy to see them all!)?  As cool as this is, I think this may be even cooler:

It's always fun the see your name in print!  

Besides sending me a review copy, Joanna has also offered to giveaway a copy of the book here on my blog.  


For a chance to win, all you need to do is leave a comment on this post by Thursday March 3 at 11:59 EST. 


Annnnnnnnd.... go!
Posted by French Press Knits at 8:30 AM
Labels:

157 comments:

  1. jessFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:34 AM

    wow, that is brilliant and adorable! let's hear it for making your vision a reality!

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  2. RachaelFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:40 AM

    Holy cow, what a great idea this is! I'll be picking up a copy for my niece - after I find out if I win!

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  3. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:40 AM

    Oh, I love the little knitted platypus! What a cute idea!!

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  4. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:44 AM

    What a great book!!!! I love it! Thanks for sharing....my graddaughter would love this. Thanks!
    Pam

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  5. LelahFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:47 AM

    You are kidding me! That is so amazing! And now I have to buy the book, of course, since I have a 1 year old boy who loves to "read", and a daughter on the way (who I hope will love knitting if only just a little!)

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  6. woolcatFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:47 AM

    Knitting and a platypus? inspired combination, love it!

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  7. Joan's Good LifeFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:54 AM

    What a lovely Idea for a book! I'll have to see if I can't find her first book. My grand son is young yet but I hope to instill in him and all other grandchildren to come, the knitting bug.

    Thanks for the opportunity to win this adorable book and congratulations for having your talent recognized within the book!

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  8. UnknownFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:56 AM

    What a lovely book, and beautiful illustrations. Love the knitted platypus!

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  9. KatieFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:57 AM

    What a great concept! And kudos to them for getting it out there on their own, when the publisher didn't take the first book. This will show them!

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  10. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:00 AM

    What better way to celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss, than reading a children's book with knitting in it. I love it.

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  11. anxiousknitterFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:08 AM

    Love the concept and the illustrations are gorgeous! My son would love this!! :)

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  12. MollyFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:08 AM

    What a wonderful idea! I can't wait to find the book. I love your blog and your patterns, Melynda. I have been wearing the Improv cowl all winter!

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  13. TeishFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:14 AM

    That's really awesome! I think it's great that someone is writing children's books that feature knitting!

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  14. RheaFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:15 AM

    What a sweet book. If I don't get lucky and win, I'll have to definitely got several copies of these books for my grandbabies.

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  15. christine dFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:15 AM

    Never say never & never let anyone tell you you can't.

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  16. hi, i'm natalieFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:18 AM

    i can't get over the gorgeous illustrations!! this would be an awesome addition to my nephew's library... or better yet, a great book to keep on hand for when he comes over!

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  17. MonicaFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:18 AM

    This is the best idea ever! A children's book with knittign patterns? The illustrations look beautiful! My son also has a growing library, and this book would be a wonderful addition.

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  18. LisaFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:18 AM

    I love platypuses! This is so cute, and the knit platypus is adorable.

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  19. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:22 AM

    Love it! So cute. My DS has recently been transforming himself into a platypus. Would love to have this for him!

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  20. ChristiFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:24 AM

    I love the idea of knitting patterns to go with a kids book. Thanks for sharing this with us!

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  21. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:27 AM

    You are truly blessed as an artist! Congratulations on all your accomplishments.

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  22. UnknownFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:29 AM

    I can't believe there's already a second book coming out. These books make such lovely gifts.

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  23. Sokike SahtlistFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:38 AM

    It seems to be a really beautiful book.
    And I adore the blue pants with red buttons that the knitted Platypus is wearing! :D

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  24. yesterdaydreamFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:49 AM

    I love the knit platypus! He he looks so huggable and chubby. Her husband did very nice illustrations and those slippers are wonderful. I made my mom a pair for Christmas last year and she cherishes them. Happy week to you.

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  25. Emily MargaretFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:49 AM

    Such a sweet book!

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  26. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:59 AM

    Adorable book ! I would be thrilled to own a copy.
    Good luck EVERYONE!

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  27. RebeccaFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:59 AM

    i love reading your blog...and seeing your beautiful creations. thanks for the chance to win a lovely book!

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  28. bubbygigiFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:03 AM

    I too love knitting and children's books. I read to my grandchildren all the time and I know that they would love this book.
    Gita/Bubbygigi

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  29. GingerFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:10 AM

    That is too cute!!!

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  30. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:10 AM

    Must have one..so cool!!

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  31. UnknownFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:10 AM

    Adorable!

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  32. knit one, knit twoFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:16 AM

    i want this book. my littlest boy's nickname is "freddie beans" and to have it include knitting (and your slippers)...heaven.

    congrats for getting your name in print! awesome!

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  33. Sarah-AshleyFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:40 AM

    That is a sweet book! So cool that your slippers got to be a part of it. :)

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  34. amberFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:40 AM

    love love love!! i would totally love a copy!

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  35. JulieFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:41 AM

    oh my gosh, this is so adorable!!! there are lots of little ones on the way for those I know, this is just too cute. I'm going to check out more of the patterns on ravelry right away!

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  36. CateFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:44 AM

    I heard about her books on the Knitmore Girls podcast. They are so sweet! What a brilliant idea!

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  37. pdxknitterati/MicheleLBFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:45 AM

    What a sweet book! And the slippers are great. Congrats to all!

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  38. MelissaFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:49 AM

    That is very cool. Thanks for sharing your fun connection to this book. It's one I want for my nursery as well (I am expecting my first baby in July).

    Melissabear on Rav
    knittingababy.blogspot.com

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  39. teaFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:55 AM

    gorgeous book!!! and lovely blog too!

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  40. JasonFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:58 AM

    What a sweet idea!

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  41. TeresaFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:58 AM

    Oh what a great concept! My Granddaughter would love it!

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  42. LeanneFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:00 AM

    Combines 2 of my favorite things...knitting & reading! Congrats on the slippers making the book too! It looks like an adorable book.

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  43. LJFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:02 AM

    oo yay! i want to have these books on hand and even if i don't win will very likely pick up a copy or two for my best friend's baby!

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  44. Anna DorothyFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:02 AM

    it is a brilliant idea!

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  45. Kristi B.February 28, 2011 at 11:05 AM

    What a great story--and concept! I can think of several people these books will be given to already (maybe with a set of FP felted slippers)!

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  46. MamaJossFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:07 AM

    Congratulations -- that's awesome!! Can't wait to buy it ;) Ordered Freddie's Blanket last week and am giving it along with the blanket as a "new baby gift" - such an awesome idea for a line of books!

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  47. SabrinaFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:10 AM

    O my goodness! That is the cutest idea!! I'd love to have those books :D

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  48. RachelFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:17 AM

    What an adorable idea! I can't wait to check it out and maybe gift it to the little ones in my life that I hope will grow up to share my love of creating and crafting

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  49. RobinFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:40 AM

    And another moment of "I wish I had thought of that!" Though my children are way to old for this book, I'll probably be getting copies of both her books for my (way in the) future grandbabies! Thanks~

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  50. betsyFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:44 AM

    What MAGIC!!!

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  51. ElizabethFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:45 AM

    Thanks for letting us know about these books - it would be great fun to win a copy, but I'll be picking them up eventually either way!

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  52. RuthFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:46 AM

    Knitting patterns and it's about a platypus? Love it.

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  53. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:47 AM

    Well I guess that I now have 2 more books to buy for the grandchildren. They look wonderful.
    Barb Bona

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  54. The Tweed OysterFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:59 AM

    love it! I've been torn between spoiling my new nephew with knits or books! and look...

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  55. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 12:02 PM

    Yeah.... I'm glad it is out. Can't wait to read it! Amanda, Selah, and Kaiyah

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  56. LoriFebruary 28, 2011 at 12:19 PM

    This is lovely to see on your blog. Joanna was to sign books this weekend at our Loveland, Colorado Fiberfest and unfortunately I missed her as I was there too early. The book is lovely and I got to see Mr. Platypus knitted and dressed in person. He's so cute! I met Joanna and her husband previously at a book signing for Phoebe's sweater. They are lovely people. Their children are photographed in the pattern section of the book. I hope to catch up with her again soon for a signed copy of the new book! Thanks for posting! Lori

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  57. ValerieFebruary 28, 2011 at 12:29 PM

    I am loving knitting stuffed animals and toys for my new granddaughter. I would love this book!!!!

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  58. *Miss Cake*February 28, 2011 at 12:29 PM

    Oh, I would love to win this! Too cute!

    Alainn.aingeal (at) gmail (dot) com

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  59. Laura ( Flours and Fibers)February 28, 2011 at 12:36 PM

    This is simply adorable. A lot of the projects I knit are inspired by children's book. I'd love to win this copy! And I meant to comment on this earlier, but your page re-design is stunning! Great work :)

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  60. jlrFebruary 28, 2011 at 12:38 PM

    Congrats, Melynda!

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  61. Crazy Knitting FoolFebruary 28, 2011 at 12:42 PM

    This is definetly one of those "why didn't I think of that" things. The books are way to cute!

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  62. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 12:46 PM

    Oh I must have it! Congrats on being mentioned in such an adorable book!

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  63. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 12:48 PM

    How wonderful! I hope I win! Thank you

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  64. SaraFebruary 28, 2011 at 12:50 PM

    I love this! Can't believe no one wanted to publish such a great idea. And how awesome that your pattern provided inspiration (and that she asked permission, that's pretty sweet!). I'm due in August and would love to get my hands on some new baby knits patterns :)

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  65. KatieDid CraftsFebruary 28, 2011 at 12:54 PM

    Combining knitting and reading. Wow my favorite things!

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  66. UnknownFebruary 28, 2011 at 12:54 PM

    I have to get a copy of this book. My son has to have either his Big B or Little B in reaching distance at all times.

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  67. TraceyFebruary 28, 2011 at 1:06 PM

    I absolutely LOVE your blog! I think YOU'RE inspirational! I would love to win a copy of this book. It looks really cute. And what's better than having a book you and your child can read together, and then YOU can have mommy time by knitting up some patterns from it. How perfect!
    Traceymccarthy@gmail.com

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  68. kinsrenfkinFebruary 28, 2011 at 1:08 PM

    Aw, that is so sweet! I love it.

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  69. Kristen RettigFebruary 28, 2011 at 1:14 PM

    What a clever idea for a book!

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  70. AmandaFebruary 28, 2011 at 1:19 PM

    Wow, that's awesome! I would love to win a copy of this book, I can't think of anything better than a book with knitting patterns and a childrens story!

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  71. JeanneFebruary 28, 2011 at 1:33 PM

    I would love to win this book. Joanna and Eric's books are a wonderful combination of a childrens book and knitting. I made Phoebe from her first book and love seeing her sitting in my home. Freddie would be a great follow up knit!

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  72. CaseyFebruary 28, 2011 at 1:33 PM

    SO neat! Great idea for a book! :)

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  73. knittingsouthFebruary 28, 2011 at 1:39 PM

    How COOL. I will be checking out this author as I am proud new great auntie to Willow and Della. Books are the next best gifts next to knitted gifts.

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  74. Knitting MamaFebruary 28, 2011 at 1:49 PM

    Wow! That book sounds super fun!!! I am going to have to check it out.

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  75. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 1:56 PM

    What nice book and how cool to be mentioned in it! What a lovely way for Joanna and her husband to follow their dreams!
    Keppy Girl Knits

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  76. MichelleFebruary 28, 2011 at 1:56 PM

    Awww...this is brilliant!

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  77. thewalshfamFebruary 28, 2011 at 2:10 PM

    I would love to win a copy for my boys!
    Katie
    rnmama on ravelry

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  78. mhchongFebruary 28, 2011 at 2:25 PM

    My 2 loves: knitting and reading. Such sweet books.

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  79. EvanFebruary 28, 2011 at 2:46 PM

    that's totally adorable and wonderful!

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  80. ooey gooey knitsFebruary 28, 2011 at 3:06 PM

    What a fantastic idea!

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  81. AlaneFebruary 28, 2011 at 3:09 PM

    Wow. This is so great all around!

    I love the slipper combination. I FINALLY bought the pattern and need to pick out the colors for slippers I'll make to thank the cousins for letting us stay with them again.

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  82. JessicaFebruary 28, 2011 at 3:33 PM

    My 3 year old would love this book!
    jpeled on ravelry

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  83. TracyFebruary 28, 2011 at 3:55 PM

    my girl would LOVE this book! thanks!

    tracyannhong@gmail.com

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  84. mialkotekFebruary 28, 2011 at 4:00 PM

    I found your blog thanks to your slippers spotted on Ravelry only two or three days ago, and today you are showing this adorable book... I'd love to see more slippers on Mama Platypus' feet by myself :) Greetings from Poland!

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  85. Katherine BurnsFebruary 28, 2011 at 4:37 PM

    What an amazing idea and I'm thrilled to see my favourite slipper pattern in a children's book too! :-)

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  86. pricelesspurlsFebruary 28, 2011 at 4:56 PM

    Congratulations on a gorgeous collaboration Melynda! As an Australian living in Canada with 2 sons born while away from home, I am always on the lookout for lovely Australiana to connect the boys (2yrs, and 8mths) to their heritage. With this book I can combine my love of reading to them, knitting for them and giving them a taste of home.

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  87. SarahFebruary 28, 2011 at 5:18 PM

    congratulations! that's so great!!

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  88. C.February 28, 2011 at 5:27 PM

    Thank you for the give away. Looks like a beautiful book.

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  89. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2011 at 5:29 PM

    That's awesome! What a great gift for a knitting Mom, Aunt or Grandma!

    (lynnmelluso at rogers dot com)

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  90. Jessica NFebruary 28, 2011 at 5:29 PM

    Oh my goodness how sweet and wonderful! My daughter, Isabelle(3 yrs), is endlessly carrying, reading or listening to us to read her books. This would be the perfect conbination of our family love of books and my addition to knitting.
    Congratualtions on having your design picked for their illustrations, what a compliment!

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  91. SarahFebruary 28, 2011 at 5:35 PM

    Even my 7 year old would love this book. She's just starting to knit (Yay!!) and LOVES to read. Thanks for sharing

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  92. JmacknitsFebruary 28, 2011 at 6:15 PM

    So cool!!! My nephew would love that book!

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  93. MaureenFebruary 28, 2011 at 6:37 PM

    What a wonderful book and I love the slippers!!

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  94. sarahFebruary 28, 2011 at 6:53 PM

    I'm keeping my fingers crossed about the book. I would love to put it in our nursery for the little one arriving in June.

    knittingnonsense(at)yahoo(dot)ca

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  95. JackFebruary 28, 2011 at 6:57 PM

    I love Phoebe's Sweater and can't wait to get my hands on this book! Thanks for posting about it.

    RotherJackie@aol.com

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  96. tammyFebruary 28, 2011 at 7:24 PM

    yeah, for a giveaway!

    maddgriffsmom@gmail.com

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  97. Beth GrayFebruary 28, 2011 at 7:38 PM

    Awww, how awesome is this book!

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  98. VacamaFebruary 28, 2011 at 7:41 PM

    There aren't nearly enough platypuses (platypi?) in books these days!

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  99. UnknownFebruary 28, 2011 at 7:42 PM

    The book sounds amazing!

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  100. ElizabethFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:20 PM

    Oh, wow, I love your new blog layout. Glad I clicked over from my reader. :)

    That book looks so sweet! I love platypus.

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  101. Jaime PFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:28 PM

    How much fun having your work in someone else's book. It looks like a great book!

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  102. meppybnFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:29 PM

    Found your slippers on Ravelry and LOVE them, of course and had just found Freddies' Blanket too - perfect melding, so here's hoping for a copy :)

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  103. danajFebruary 28, 2011 at 8:39 PM

    I need this book...I'm expecting my first child, a boy, in May. This is perfect for my passion for knitting and reading. Thank you for sharing!

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  104. TeriFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:18 PM

    So adorable. It's inspirational to hear success stories of people who follow their dreams. Congrats on the book and on having your pattern featured in it.

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  105. ClaireFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:27 PM

    105 comments already?! Wow. And you work a full time job somewhere not doing this! Please include me in the "drawing" as I would love to win (and also do something creative like this for a "living" Congratulations.

    Claire

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  106. MarilynFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:37 PM

    How creative. This will make someone very happy.

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  107. DarciFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:47 PM

    I love this book...I have been stalking it around the internet.

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  108. GretchenFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:53 PM

    That book looks so sweet! I would love to have it to make thing from it and then give the book and items to a pregnant friend! So cool.

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  109. NicoleFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:25 PM

    I am so happy for them that they are living their dream and publishing books! And how fun for your slippers to be featured. I would love a copy of this book. We are expecting our first in May. This would be a fun start to baby's library. Thank you for the opportunity.

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  110. knitterlydesignsFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:56 PM

    What a great idea for a book. How neat for you to be used as inspiration.

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  111. KdunnFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:12 PM

    Well that is just the sweetest thing ever! Yeah for her for not giving up on something she believed in.

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  112. Rebekka SealeFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:30 PM

    I hope I winnnnnnnn!!!!!!!

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  113. Ann O.February 28, 2011 at 11:50 PM

    My first grandbaby will be here in 7 weeks. We just had his shower where the theme was books for the nursery. I surprised her at the shower by (no books) making a cocoon and hat, and a sweater for him (Cameron will be his name). Melissa didn't even know I could knit...(it's been a long time, but I remembered!). This would be the perfect addition!!

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  114. adventure knitterMarch 1, 2011 at 12:12 AM

    Cute book! Gotta love a book with a knitting pattern....

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  115. DebMarch 1, 2011 at 2:59 AM

    What a darling concept! I'm so glad she's made her dream a reality! And how wonderful to include your lovely slippers! Score!

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  116. TanyaMarch 1, 2011 at 3:09 AM

    Ok, seriously? How cute is that knitted platypus? I love how the illustrations incorporate family and knitting and can't wait to read the story!

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  117. AnonymousMarch 1, 2011 at 4:04 AM

    Oh my goodness. This book sounds adorable. I just found out I was pregnant last week and we are so excited :) This book looks fabulous and so great to begin our (hopefully) ever growing collection. Love it.

    And how cool is that to have your name in the acknowledgments !!!

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  118. Mick mathesonMarch 1, 2011 at 7:18 AM

    Absolutely love this! It is such an adorable idea! I'm pregnant with our first and this would be an perfect addition to our woodland themed nursery!

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  119. TaraMarch 1, 2011 at 7:44 AM

    Sometimes I don't think publishers know their *ss from a hole in the ground. This is a brilliant idea and clearly I'm not the only one who thinks so! :) If I don't win, I think I'll be adding these to my collection regardless.

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  120. CeltChickMarch 1, 2011 at 8:25 AM

    My nieces are probably "too old" to enjoy this book, but maybe there'll be grandkids someday? And I've always loved children's books (my daughter has a huge collection of Little Monster books, just 'coz Mama couldn't resist them). Love that platypus toy!

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  121. DanielleMarch 1, 2011 at 8:49 AM

    What a beautifully illustrated book and great idea to including knitting. Very inspirational. Thanks to you for all of your beautiful work,as well,and offering such a gift.

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  122. CathyMarch 1, 2011 at 8:56 AM

    Children's books have always been a fascination for me, ever since my first trip to the public library at the age of 4. The only problem was my parents forgot to tell me I had to return the books! About 15 years ago my niece wrote a children's book called "The Plaid Platypus". These cute characters remind me of her platy! She is also a knitter and we would love to have a copy of this book.

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  123. JoAnnaJaeMarch 1, 2011 at 9:13 AM

    Cutest book ever! And I just love the knit platypus!

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  124. tamaraMarch 1, 2011 at 10:38 AM

    WHat a phenomenal idea! As a mother who knits, this is just perfect...even if I don;t win (and chances of that a very small!) I plan on purchasing a few copies to give to my knitterly friends!

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  125. Kerri5280March 1, 2011 at 10:44 AM

    What a great book! I plan on buying a few copies for my knitting friends who are having babies.

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  126. emicatMarch 1, 2011 at 11:03 AM

    What a great idea for a children's book! And how wonderful to be included in it! The book would be perfect for a knitter mom to be :)

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  127. JaneMarch 1, 2011 at 12:28 PM

    Wow! What a wonderful idea.....and those illustrations look stunning! Reminds me of "The Wind In The Willows" one of my favourite books as a child, but the knitting patterns take this children's book into a whole other dimension!

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  128. Doula MommyMarch 1, 2011 at 3:10 PM

    Oh how sweet! We love Phoebe Mouse at our house, and since there is a new baby on the way here, I think a Freddie and May should come to visit as well!
    ~Jessica

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  129. KristinaMarch 1, 2011 at 4:35 PM

    I really want to take a look at these books. I think I'll have to look at Freddie's Blanket for my niece. She's getting ready to have a new baby, after all. Hmmm.

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  130. billicummingsMarch 1, 2011 at 5:09 PM

    Oh geez, I don't know what to say except I absolutely love the books! I wasn't aware your slipper was in there! That makes it even more appealing. Please pick me, my toes are crossed. ;)

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  131. RhondaMarch 1, 2011 at 5:30 PM

    My kids are nearly grown but I want these books! Adorable, and so glad that the author pursued her dream of authoring them! Melynda, I love the slippers on the platypus! Was at Knitting on the Fringe and thought I heard you will be there doing a slipper class this month. Is that correct? If so, I have to get some girls out there to join in since they are LOVING your pattern!

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  132. Bobbie in AKMarch 1, 2011 at 5:40 PM

    How very cool! I have her first book and love the illustrations. Thanks for the book give-away!

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  133. AnonymousMarch 1, 2011 at 6:41 PM

    What a great idea for a book!

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  134. jamie leighMarch 1, 2011 at 6:51 PM

    I know of a the "PERFECT" person for this book!! Thanks for sharing :0)

    ~ jamie leigh.

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  135. by Annie ClaireMarch 1, 2011 at 7:06 PM

    that makes me want to have a kid!

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  136. MadeleineMarch 1, 2011 at 7:36 PM

    Looks like a great book and toy!

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  137. AnonymousMarch 1, 2011 at 7:56 PM

    What a great looking book! Thanks..

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  138. SmilestuffMarch 1, 2011 at 8:54 PM

    Joanna Johnson is so so talented!!! I just finished knitting the sweater and matching doll sweater from her first book "Phoebe's Sweater" for my little niece.....sending book and knitted items are my favorite gifting thing to do!!! I am anxious to see your handiwork with Joanna's latest book :)

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  139. emeselleMarch 1, 2011 at 9:16 PM

    It looks like you've got energy to spare, thanks for sharing it with us!

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  140. JoanMarch 1, 2011 at 10:23 PM

    What time does Barnes and Noble open??? I must have them!

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  141. JeanMarch 1, 2011 at 10:56 PM

    Would love to have the book. Thanks for sharing Jean

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  142. AnonymousMarch 1, 2011 at 11:22 PM

    Nearly all of the ladies in my knitting group are currently working on Phoebe's Sweater, and I don't have any little girls to knit for! I DO have a little boy to knit for and almost squealed (fine, I did squeal) when I found out a boyish book was coming out, too! Seeing the illustrations makes me want it even MORE!

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  143. AnonymousMarch 1, 2011 at 11:24 PM

    Freddie's blanket woulod be so sweet to swaddle!
    Claudia in Canada

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  144. AnonymousMarch 1, 2011 at 11:50 PM

    Just darling!!! How sweet is it to snuggle with a hand knit blanket and doll that came from the book.

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  145. LauraLillyLauraMarch 2, 2011 at 9:20 AM

    Love it, love it! Pick me!!

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  146. AnonymousMarch 2, 2011 at 9:32 AM

    I love this, I have a grandaughter who has been asking me to teach her to knit - this might do it!!!

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  147. PixiewearMarch 2, 2011 at 9:34 AM

    Oh, how beautiful! Thanks for the chance to win!!

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  148. UnknownMarch 2, 2011 at 11:57 AM

    As a brand new Nana, I just love these. I think my little one would like to sit on my lap and read the book as much as I :)

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  149. AnonymousMarch 2, 2011 at 5:20 PM

    What a fun book, have her first on my wish list.....would love to have this, as I know everyone would........!!!!! Di....

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  150. AnonymousMarch 2, 2011 at 10:19 PM

    I love it!

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  151. IvaMarch 2, 2011 at 11:24 PM

    What an adorable little platypus! And thank you for the generous giveaway.

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  152. Samantha NagtegaalMarch 3, 2011 at 8:44 AM

    Wow, what an incredibly talented illustrator, really inspirational. And such a lovely idea to combine a children's book with knitting patterns.

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  153. AnonymousMarch 3, 2011 at 10:57 AM

    Wow what a great book idea!

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  154. Rach_SpencerMarch 3, 2011 at 2:34 PM

    So fun!!

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  155. KristenMarch 3, 2011 at 8:02 PM

    I've added this book to my "want" list - and I see a copy winging it's way to a few of my friends who are due in the next several months. Thank you! (and congrats on the birth of your daughter - she is adorable!)

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  156. CarolynMarch 3, 2011 at 9:52 PM

    What adorable (and do-able) patterns for knitting. My two granddaughters (8 and 9 years old) and I have formed a knitting group that meets every Thursday. The illustrations are sensitive and non-threatening for little ones. This is the type of picture books I like for children -- stories that are gentle and quiet for bedtime reading. Thanks. Keep writing and illustrating.

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  157. the LadyMarch 10, 2011 at 7:30 AM

    What an enchanting book. I'd covet it.

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