Benni Harper's Quilt Album: A Scrapbook of Quilt Projects, Photos & Never-Before-Told Stories [With Quilt Patterns]

Though I'm not familiar with Benni Harper books, the quilt patterns themselves are a stand-alone reason for quilters to get this book. The finished quilts range in size from baby or lap quilt size (39" x 39") to the largest, at 74" x 88". There are many styles in the book, including country/country-western (She Shall Overcome, Senor Azure, It's Never too Late to Be a Cowgirl, Kansas Troubles, Final Roundup); vintage-look (Path in the Wilderness, Best Friends in Spite Of, A Mother's Love, Family Chain); modern (Coming Storms); and classic (With this Ring, Big Bear Honeymoon). My favorite, the Path in the Wilderness quilt, looks cute when done in '30s repro prints, and the original that it is based on can be viewed on author Fowler's official website. Quilt designer Margrit Hall mixes traditional quilt patterns with the non-traditional. The one thing that would have improved the book, in my opinion, would have been for the traditional quilt designs they were based upon to be discussed in more historical detail, perhaps in side bars. As a beginner, I want to say to other beginners: Don't be intimidated by the quilt designs in this book, even though they look complex. Because many of the quilts are small, you'll have a great-looking quilt in no time--the smaller ones are great first projects for future quilters!

First, I am a major fan of Earlene's books and a quilter and this book is the perfect marriage of the two. I loved the quilt patterns but really loved the stories that added insight into stories we've already read. I cannot for the life of me figure out what books Liz was reading to find such off the wall connections to Earlene's characters, especially the Scott Peterson to Gabe reference but these people are very realistic and like real people have flaws. I personally don't want to read about perfect people, I want to read about people who learn and grow. I loved the story of the blue turtle especially because it shows you a little bit of Gabe's soul. I've had a crush on Gabe since the first book and he just isn't anything like Scott Peterson. If you love the Benni Harper books or quilts, this is just a great addition. I gave several out as gifts. You can't go wrong with anything written by Earlene Fowler.

I am not a quilter but this book makes me wish I was one. I loved the pitures of the beautiful quilts and especially the stories that go with each one. I am a Bennie Harper fan and have read all the Bennie Harper mysteries. I love each of the charaters, everytime I read one of the books I feel like I'm visiting with old friends. As for the one review comparing Gabe to Scott Peterson it's ridiculous. Gabe has never been abusive or told blatant lies about his life. Liz if you have a problem with romance novels go get on your soap box in the correct forum where is may actually apply.

The quilt patterns in this book are GORGEOUS! If I didn't quilt, I'd buy the book just to look at the pictures. And the short stories are just terrific. What a treat to read more about Benni, her family and friends.