Rating: 
Summary: Good instruction but I'm not a fan of the patterns
Review: The Knit Stitch was among a group of knitting books I borrowed from the library to review before making a decision on which to purchase. I was pleased to find it because I had heard quite a bit about it. It is not one I'll be purchasing for my own knitting library.
I would probably be considered an advanced beginner (have done a sweater and a few other things, mainly with simple techniques). I found quite a few of the tips and hints to be helpful. For a beginner, I can imagine that the actual photographs of the stitches and process, instead of diagrams, would be very helpful. At the time I borrowed it, I was working on seaming my first sweater and consulted the book often. She teaches only the knit stitch in this book, leaving purling for the second in the series. Personally, I would have preferred both in the same book as a beginner but separating them would let her include much more detail and you perfect one stitch before moving to the other. Each pattern is labeled with the level of difficulty.
My biggest problem is the patterns. Obviously, patterns are going to be a matter of personal taste and style so others may disagree with me. I didn't find anything in this book that I just have to make. Most are in garter stitch, a couple are stockinette on circular or double pointed needles. I just don't like garter stitch, except in a fuzzy or novelty yarn scarf! She does include a few projects for men and children but most patterns are strictly for women.
The sweater and other garment patterns struck me as quite dated. I'm 29, with a personal style that is relatively classic, slightly trendy and didn't find anything in this book I'd like to wear. Some of the garments are cropped, some are modeled with big gold buttons, most are oversized and baggy. Like another reviewer suggested, I can't imagine someone with trendy or classic tastes wearing most of these.
The sizing included in the book doesn't work well for me. Most of the projects are for a 40 inch chest size or greater which doesn't work well for someone like me who is only 5'0 tall with a small frame. I'm sure many will appreciate the wide range of sizes she includes but I'd have to rework any patterns I wanted to make for the fit so they don't overpower me.
I would recommend it for the instruction for a beginner (but would recommend Stitch and Bitch: The Knitters Handbook or Knitting for Dummies over it to someone my age or younger). For the patterns, I'd suggest reviewing the book before purchasing or looking at a different book.
Rating: 
Summary: Nice Aesthetic, Terrible Example Pictures!
Review: This book has a nice breezy, readable style and a beautiful aesthetic. At first I was sure I'd be horrified by a whole book of garter-stitched items, but the author's eye is above reproach. Her attitude is also quite refreshing, and the (very simple) projects are quite suitable (and not old-ladyish).
HOWEVER- instead of line drawings to show technique, the book uses photographs. The photos all use white yarn on light-colored needles! I found myself squinting within minutes. I really don't think you can see enough of what's going on. Therefore, I don't think I could have learned knitting from this book.
Rating: 
Summary: Not bad, not bad at all
Review: This book is probably the best I've seen for teaching the basics of knitting in a clear, interesting fashion. The short essays on knitting are fascinating and uplifting. I am also amazed at how much this woman can do with a simple garter stitch.The patterns aren't quite as good as the rest of the book. Most of them are oversized and not exactly the hippest designs. There were actually only two patterns in the book that I had a desire to make, and they were both scarves. In general, I highly recommend this book if you are just learning to knit, or are looking for some good, insightful words about this wonderful craft. However, if you just want some cool patterns, I suggest you look elsewhere.
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