There are three types of books in this section:

1. Books that encourage kids (or even adults) to learn to quilt
2. Books that use quilting as a technique to teach another subject (for adults or kids) (usually geared to the already-converted quilter or quilt-lover)
3. Books that use quilts and either stories or interesting topics to reinforce each other (or in other words, combining the first two): the project brings the story to life, and the story coaxes interest in the project

For homeschoolers, I heartily recommend using the age-appropriate books listed here as part of your unit studies.

  Circles of the East : Quilt Designs from Ancient Japanese Family Crests
by Kumiko Sudo
review by Jenny
This book details the history of ancient Japanese Family Crests. Each Crest's story begins with the original design and traces it through the ages. The author has designed a quilt from each Crest, interpreting it in contemporary fabrics. Clear, easy instructions enable you to duplicate her work, or use it as inspiration for your own designs.
There is no better way to understand a culture, or to experience history, than to craft its unique arts with your own hands. This book will inspire you as it teaches.
Purchase from Amazon.com

  Fabled Flowers : Innovative Quilt Patterns Inspired by Japanese Sashiko and Origami Traditions
by Kumiko Sudo
review by Jenny
A treasury of Japanese folk tales, richly illstrated by beautiful 3-D quilted flowers in traditional Japanese fabrics. Inspired by elements of traditional Japanese arts, these designs create new, unique quilt effects. Simple instructions bring the stories alive in your own work. Older children may enjoy working projects based on these stories, encouraging an interest in fabric arts and in Japan.
Purchase from Amazon.com

  Wildflowers : Designs for Applique and Quilting
by Carol Armstrong
review by Jenny and L.
This book is a solid guide to wildflowers, as it names and describes each flower it features. Quilters can use it to learn a bit of botany as well as to decorate their quilts with these gorgeous flower designs. The patterns are clear and easy to follow, and this book give very good instructions on how to applique. Botanists may be tempted to try quilting, and children may want to use this book to learn quilting and flowers together. However, the patterns use lots of tiny pieces, so these patterns really are not for beginners.
Purchase from Amazon.com

  No Dragons on My Quilt
by Jean Ray Laury
review by Jenny
What could possibly be better than a special quilt made by your mother or grandmother? A quilt with a special story! In this book, Benjamin is afraid to go to bed alone, but the special quilt made by his grandmother makes things better. This special quilt is one you can make too, with the patterns and instructions included in the book. The story makes the quilt extra-special, and the quilt encourages the child to love to read. It's fun to read about your own stuff!
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  The Boy and the Quilt
by Shirley S. Kurtz, illustrated by Cheryl Benner
review by Jenny and L.
This delightful children's book, illustrated in full color, is a story of a boy who decided to make his own quilt. He makes exactly the quilt he wants, even when his mother tries to tell him "it would be better if...." (the ultimate discouragement to young creativity). The boy says "It's MY quilt!" and kids learn they can do the same. No quilter's child should be without this book. Includes instructions for making a quilt and a comforter.
Purchase from Amazon.com

  More Projects & Patterns : A Second Collection of Favorite Quilts : Narratives, Directions, and Patterns for 15 Quilts
by Judy Florence
review by L.
This book contains a narrative about each quilt pictured and gives instructions. It discusses how the quilt came to be made, its pattern, why it's successful, and other information which should interest a person who might want to make that quilt. The illustrations are very nicely done. The full-size pattern does not include the seam allowance; however, the instructions are good and easy to follow. While many of the patterns are available elsewhere, there are a few unusual ones that make the book worth purchasing.
Purchase from Amazon.com