I listened to this on audio book and the reader, at first, sounded horrible, but luckily she got better.  This has been the best book I've "read" recently but be warned that it is a bit sad and depressing but there is hope.  I listened to it over Xmas, probably not the greatest time of year .  Each character has had a major tragedy in her life and thru knitting, she is offered hope of getting thru and forming friendships with other knitters.  I do think it dragged on a bit, though, could have ended a little sooner.