Book Review

The Quilters Apprentice
by Jennifer Chiaverini

Master quilter Sylvia Compson shares the secrets of her creative gifts with her young assistant, Sarah McClure. During their lessons, the intricate, varied threads of Sylvia's life begin to emerge. It is the story of a young wife living through the hardships and agonies of the World War II home front; of a family torn apart by jealously and betrayal; of misunderstanding, loss, and a tragedy that can never be undone. I was delighted to read Book One of this series. And although I had met many of the chracters before in The Christmas Quilt, it was delighful to find how life had bought them together.

Indeed quilting and quilts are wonderful metaphors used throughout these books, as the experiences and patterns of the lives of the characters peice together to be more then they were alone.

The process of quilting, a life of cooking traditions, the insight into the challenges of everyday life, of things well passed and now regretted - of developing a home and hearth; a much beloved and once cherished Elm Creek Manor where once many generations resided...Slyvia is ready to sell up when into her life come Matt and Sarah.