Arts, Crafts, & Humor

Knitters who love their craft but are a bit too busy to tackle (and transport) large projects will really appreciate this book. Knitting 24/7 is filled with easy projects that are perfect for “in-between” times, like when you’re traveling, commuting, or waiting for your kids. Ranging from sweaters and scarves to hats and mittens, these projects have easy to memorize stitch patterns—and are adorable, to boot.

From children’s books to New Yorker covers, from fashion to philosophical musings, this first retrospective book on the supremely talented illustrator, author, and designer Maira Kalman is a total delight for her legions of fans—ourselves, most definitely, included. This book presents Kalman’s commentary on her life as an artist, collector, observer, traveler, and maker of lists, as well as examples of her newest project, embroidery. Maira Kalman is a wonderful celebration of a life dedicated to making art.

It was really only a matter of time before one of The Daily Show’s funniest correspondents finally found a pen and captured her wit. Samantha Bee’s book of personal essays is relentlessly hilarious while also managing to be sweet and heartfelt. Her deadpan sarcasm and faux-ignorance has made her one of The Daily Show’s most endearing personas, and those traits seep into her stories. By far the funniest book I’ve read this year. —Z.G.R.