Knitch Magazine

Handknit Heroes is the first graphic novel for knitters. Each issue comes with a knitting pattern that is thoughtfully incorporated into the story and is illustrated on one of the characters. Written by Stephanie Bryant, an accomplished writer, and illustrated by Marc Olivent who creates compelling imagery, the book is a fast and fascinating read. But, be forewarned: this format is going to be unfamiliar to many knitters.

While graphic novels, with their striking illustrations and complex storylines, might appear to be a new form of literature, William Blake is credited with their introduction in the Western world. For those of you not familiar with Blake, he was a Romantic-era author, poet and illustrator who in 1788 created All Religions Are One, a book containing his own writings and etchings. He was considered a bit of a radical in his own time, a creative madman and mystic who claimed to have visions that guided him.

Graphic novels that began to emerge in the 1970’s have enjoyed huge success amongst science fiction audiences. While the concept is similar to that of a comic book, with recurring heroes and themes, it typically involves a complex plot, and is printed on higher quality materials that are usually used in traditional paperback publishing.

Handknit Heroes is the story of a single mother and her teenage twins, Alex and Ana, and Ana’s friend, Sue. In issue #1 we learn that this is not your average suburban family: Mom, the owner of a yarn shop, has a secret laboratory in the basement where she is working on bulletproof knitting yarn. The plot involves relationships, deception and, of course, the right amount of villainy and violence to keep the reader turning pages – and .anxious for issue #2 to arrive.

Sometimes, the illustrator depicts the underlying emotions of the characters so well that no words need to be spoken: the face says it all. (And sometimes, in Ana’s case, the cuss words leave little doubt about intent!)

The series has a lot to recommend it, and the potential to get good and addictive! This is not the everyday knitting chick lit we have become accustomed to -- with women bonding over knitting and discovering things about themselves, or maybe even solving a crime together. This is a whole new medium that may appeal to a broad spectrum of knitters from teenage beginners who’ll identify with the kids in the story to their moms who love a good yarn.

The pattern in this first issue is Erssie Major’s “Pow!,” a hooded scarf with pockets that is perfect for the beginner, and trendy enough to please any teen.

As a knitter, I think it’s fun to have our own superheroes. And if the first issue is any indication of where this series is going, I think they’re going to be very cool superheroes we’ll want to continue to follow.

Handknit Heroes is published by Stephanie Bryant and can be purchased online through Yarnmarket.