I love how this book illustrates how craft can bring people together. For the women, it was so much more than learning new skills and honing the craft; it was about making lifelong friendships, having the identity of borderer, pride in their work and becoming a valued part of the community. For the men of the book, their craft is bell-ringing; something they did with pride and accomplishment. This too gave them purpose; a sense of giving back and and a blissful escape from the horrors of war that they previously endured.
We as quilters today want the same things as Violet: to create, to share and find solace in craft and the community. Our desire to be creative and true to authentic selves transcends time and this beautiful, gentile novel is a wonderful illustration of that.
Sarah interviewed A Single Thread author Tracy Chevalier on her podcast, The Great British Quilter Podcast. Listen to their interview on Sarah's website! Look for Series 2, episode 1.
BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS
Once you've read the book, I've posed some questions for you to consider, either by yourself, to discuss with your book club, or in the A Single Thread MQG Social Circle. (SPOILER ALERT - don't read the questions until you've read the book!)
Do you think Violet was right to leave Mrs Speedwell, move to Winchester and forge a better life for herself?
In an act of defiance, Violet goes on a walking holiday by herself. How do you think Violet really felt about doing this? Is this something you would ever do?
Could Violet have done more to support Dorothy when she had no where to live? Why do you think she was reluctant to get involved?
Violet was determined not to become a carer for her mother for the rest of her days. Do you think she did the right thing getting Dorothy to become her carer instead?
Do you sympathise with Mrs Speedwell? Do you agree that Violet 'abandoned' her or did Mrs Speedwell make life so impossible for her that she had no choice?
What are your feelings towards Violet at the end of the book, compared to when you first met her? Is she a likeable character?
Miss Pesel states that “When there is an upset, there's nothing like needlework to bring calm and focus.” Do you agree with her? Can you think of a time when you've found solace in stitching?