Book excerpt: Welcome to the quilting bee! With the help of popular author/illustrator Gail Gibbons, you'll learn how quilts are made and discover their fascinating history as well as lots of fun facts. This picture book with bright watercolors follows a quilting circle from the time a new quilt is planned to the point where it's displayed at the county fair. Dating back centuries, quilting bees were important social functions, combining both work and pleasure. They still exist today and attract thousands of snippers, clippers, and stitchers from all walks of life. Some traditional quilt patterns have funny names: Trip Around the World, Bear's Paw, Crazy Quilt. Today's quilt makers also use their imaginations to create new designs that are works of art. Here's the book to get you started in the wonderful world of quilts. Maybe you'll want to make one of your own!