This is my favorite of the "how to knit" books I have read. It's written in a clear and friendly tone, and the overriding message of the book is that there are multiple ways to knit, and one should use whatever method works best. This seems like a small issue, but so many knitting books insist that there is only one true way that this one is refreshing.

Righetti has clear instructions for knitting in various styles, including continental, American and a bit on Eastern uncrossed. The pictures are adequate for the most part – they get the job done, but aren't particularly clear or helpful. However, Righetti makes up for that with clear text instructions. If you learn well by reading, this would be a great book for you. This book also has the best instructions for circular knitting that I've ever seen.

In spite of all those positives, the real value of this book lies in the tips and tricks and hints that Righetti sprinkles throughout the text. I haven't tried them all yet, but those that I have used are extremely helpful. She also includes 3 projects at the end of the book. They aren't exciting, but they will teach a beginner the basics of knitting, shaping and finishing that can be used over and over and over again in other knit projects.