Americans did all they could to help the cause during World War I. Boys and girls even knit hats and socks for soldiers on the front lines. See how they turned knitting into a local competition

Willow is Vietnamese, orphaned, adopted, and a young genius who loves the number seven. As she negotiates a new school, new friendships, and a new family, her philosophical observations underscore what it means to come together as a family

This story is about a little boy whose father left to fight in WWI. He wanted to go with him because he felt that was the manly thing to do. He lived with his mother and sister, who would both knit, and they encouraged the little boy to knit a piece for his father. He was resistant to the idea. Eventually, he began knitting. One day at school, there was a competition announced for the best knitter. While at the park during his competition he realized it was only girls present and he and his two other friends were the only males present. As he was knitting, he saw a soldier approach him and showed his gratitude towards the young boy. When the little boy was halfway done with his piece, he realized he missed a stitch, which in turn would make him have to start all over. At that point, he didn't care. He restarted his piece, finished it, and gave it to the solider at the park. This book was an unexpected one for me. I had no idea it involved gender norms, and I can say I enjoyed it, it was refreshing. ( )

Mikey's dad is sent away to war and his family is left to think of things to send to him. When Mikey's mom asked If he wants to knit, he persist that it is only for girls. His mindset changes when the Knitting Bee contest comes around and he then decides that he is up for the challenge. As he is about to give up, he comes across a soldier who encourages him. Mikey then goes on to knit the solider socks and also send a pair to his dad. This story is very uplifting. It teaches kids that no task is too small to make a difference. I really liked how they showed the soldier with one leg. It is a way to politely and gently bring up the not so good side of wars, but in a very soft way. I also liked the pictures at the end of the book of children knitting during that time, it was very informing. I did not even know that existed. ( )

When Mikey's dad is a soldier and has to leave to go fight in World War 1, Mikey is of course upset. The family begins to sew different clothing materials to send to the soldiers to help them out when it gets cold. Mikey thinks sewing is just for girls and doesn't want to help with the sewing of the clothing materials until the Knitting Bee takes place and Mikey agrees to take on the challenge. After failing at making the socks he wanted to me, Mikey almost gives up until a soldier spots him and begins to talk to him. The soldier tells Mikey that even though Mikey may not think the socks are great, the soldiers will still love them. This makes Mikey super happy and Mikey realizes sewing is for all people. Mikey sees how happy the soldier is after he gives him the sock he made and after hard work, Mikey's dad is super happy with the socks Mikey made for him! This story shows people how even though it may not your best, people still appreciate it very much, don't ever get down or give up! ( )