Knots have been used for thousands of years, likely first tied in plant vines and strips of animal skins. Knotted ropes were used in the construction of ancient pyramids and grand stone cathedrals. Sailors perfected countless knots during long voyages in the days of huge sailing fleets. A sailor sometimes even kept a new knot a secret until he could trade his knowledge for another sailor’s prized knot.

So begins this high-interest book of knot know-how. The first few Total Pages offer basic instruction on cordage as well as information on binding and coiling rope. Readers then move on to "Knots to Know," where they learn seven basic knots from the overhand knot to the reef knot.

Sadler has incorporated ten terrific kid-friendly projects which include: a wound-rope ladder, a basketball net, a monkey’s fist fob, and a square-knot guitar strap.

Like the rest of the books in the Kids Can Do It series, Knotting is extremely well-written and well-designed. Each project has clear, easy-to-follow directions that are illustrated with full-color photographs and detailed illustrations.

Classroom Use: We took this book—along with some rope—into a sixth-grade classroom. The students were immediately engrossed and begged to take the book home so they could practice their knotting. One young girl ended up making display board of knots she had learned.