Franklin Habit’s book, “It Itches: A Stash of Knitting Cartoon” (Interweave, $12.95), landed on my welcome mat last week and, wow, what a treat! I’ve heard Franklin read his knitting related essays on the podcast circuit, so I was well aware of his skill in the humor department. But I had yet to realize his fantastic skills as a cartoonist and illustrator.

“It Itches,” is a small and wonderful book that you and the other knitters in your life will appreciate.  A quick read, it made me laugh and oh, so glad I knit. I can’t wait to pass the book around to my fellow knitters at Craft Club. As an experienced knitter, Franklin speaks our language and was able to serve up the perfect blend of artistic wit to make knitters around the globe chuckle.

Mixed in with dozens of clever knitting cartoons are short humor pieces including those about men knitting, a long forgotten poncho, royal underpants and the fight to resist a skein of handpainted sock yarn. Franklin also tackles one of life’s big art vs. craft questions, a question I’ve probably asked more than I should on my podcast.

I found this book most enjoyable and recommend it to all the needle clickers of the world. Keep a copy in the knitting bag to pull out when you’re in need of a ergonomic break or want to come to the aid of a knitter friend in desperate need of comic relief.

Congrats, Franklin, on a wonderful first book!