Books for beginners?

[ademareej]

So, my mother has recently started to crochet (she's been knitting for quite some time).  I learned from people (through 4-H, go 4-H!) and not books - in fact, I rarely even use a pattern anymore.  She, however, really prefers doing things by the book and from patterns.  So, does anyone have suggestions on what books would be good for a beginner (meaning, hints and tips for those sticky situation type books, not necessarily patterns)?  (or, can point me to a thread/site with some suggestions?  I took a quick look around and didn't really see anything, but I'm sure it exists somewhere...) Thanks!

[joybilee]

i learned from I Taught Myself to Crochet from Boye.  i had tried other books but it never clicked until that one.  i also had people try to show me, but i'm better with books because people make me nervous.  i also recommend Crocheting for Dummies.  i already knew the basics when i got this book, but it has a wide range of useful info, good layout, detailed illustrations, & seems pretty comprehensive.

http://www.joann.com/joann/catalog.jsp?CATID=cat2880&PRODID=prd12398
http://www.dummies.com/WileyCDA/DummiesTitle/Crocheting-For-Dummies.productCd-076454151X.html

[dotsamantha]

Teach Yourself Visually Crocheting by Kim Werker and Crocheting in Plain English by Maggie Righetti have been very handy.

[ademareej]

Thanks!  Those are great suggestions, I'll look them up.

[turtlelove]

i was a beginner a year ago too, and i learned really well with The Happy Hooker by Debbie Stoller.  the diagrams were really helpful and there are patterns in the back that are really cute and pretty easy!  also she kinda gives a background and fun history lesson about crocheting.  and the way she explains stuff is laugh out loud funny!