LIBRARY JOURNAL Designer Parker's debut book features 12 amigurumi animals--a bear, a bunny, an owl, and more--that range in size from 7 to 21 inches. These designs range from easy to intermediate skill levels and are intended mainly for fur yarn, which requires a relatively tense technique. Some patterns also use worsted- or aran-weight yarn for attachments, such as ears and feet. The author provides a guide for purchasing and managing fur yarn; evaluating its construction, weight, and style; and trimming it for specific projects. Fur yarn is both unforgiving (crocheters must rely on feel as stitches are obscured) and forgiving (furry stitches hide imperfections), but the book includes tips and tricks for crocheters to adjust and keep track of stitches as they work. The book contains several pages of stitching techniques with easy-to-follow images; each pattern includes detailed instructions on finishing the piece, including stuffing, adding eyes, and sewing pieces together. The finished products are adorable stuffies with names such as Pierre Penguin and Abbey Axolotl. VERDICT The inclusion of fur yarn for these patterns differentiates this resource from other amigurumi books.

Great for experienced crocheters.