Keepers of the Sheep: Knitting in Morocco's High Atlas and Beyond by Irene Waggener

Follow Irene Waggener into the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco to learn about a knitting tradition that stretches back in time through generations - possibly to the very origins of the craft. In this collection of 7 essays and 13 patterns, readers are given a glimpse of life in a High Atlas village where knitting once played a key role in surviving harsh, snowy winters.

The knitting patterns in this book include traditional designs by shepherds who want to share their knowledge with other knitters and future generations. The patterns are presented alongside essays that provide the cultural and environmental context in which knitting was practiced in the High Atlas.

In addition, Irene’s research takes the reader backwards in time as she examines the history of knitting in Morocco and North Africa. Through historical accounts, linguistic clues, and museum artifacts - some of which have not been available to the general public until now - Irene presents a holistic view of knitting in North Africa from Morocco to Egypt. Her research is accompanied by knitting patterns inspired by historical sources, bringing to life once again the skills of early North African knitters.

As requested by the shepherds who contributed to this book, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the women’s cooperative, Cooperative Ibilou. The cooperative will use these funds for community development projects that will benefit everyone in their village.

REVIEW:
Though I love to crochet, I confess my knitting has rarely been more than passable and so I bought Keepers of the Sheep for the stories and history of knitting in the High Atlas rather than in the hopes of recreating any of the projects. The essays that open each chapter are engaging and enlightening, and I love the detective work involved in tracking down the men who preserve this dying craft. Despite my lack of knitting skills, many of the patterns seem quite clear and easy to follow; certainly the photographs of the various projects make me want to give them a try! Highly recommend this interesting look at the history of knitting in the mountains of Morocco.