The Giving Quilt

Chiaverini returns to the quilters of Elm Creek Manor and introduces several new characters in her sweet latest novel (after Sonoma Rose). When Sylvia asks the participants in Quiltsgiving, a post-Thanksgiving weeklong get-together, why they quilt and why they give, their answers point to personal tragedies and triumphs, reminding readers of the powers of generosity and friendship. Jocelyn recently lost her husband in a tragic accident, and she channels her energies into keeping his after-school programs alive. Linnea wants to keep the public library where she works open to all visitors, but a lack of funding and political squabbling make it difficult. Michaela is recovering from a leg injury sustained during a sabotaged cheerleading tryout, and she fears her future is jeopardized. Despite the particulars of each obstacle or victory, each woman finds encouragement in one another, and as they quilt, they stitch together their strengths to cope with individual struggles. Chiaverini%E2%80%99s themes of love, loss, and healing will resonate with many, and her characters%E2%80%99 stories are inspiring. Agent: Maria Massie, Lippincott Massie McQuilkin Agency. (Oct.)