Goddess of the Last Minute: Laughter and Lessons from an Uncommon Quilter

by Robbi Joy Eklow

A funny thing happened on the way to the quilt show. . . . So the story invariably goes, because, where Robbi Joy Eklow (a.k.a. The Goddess of the Last Minute) goes, something funny is bound to happen--or simply to occur to her.As colorful and surprising as the quilts Robbi is famous for, the stories and reflections gathered here create an irresistible picture of an irrepressible character quilting and quipping her way through life.Filled with the kind of gems that have made her Quilting Arts Magazine column so popular, this book includes Robbi’s musings on creativity and color, as well as on the trials and tribulations that every quilter faces. The Goddess of the Last Minute invites readers to take a wry look at those trials--and, with Robbi’s wit and insight, turn them into the sort of crazy quilt that warms and brightens daily life.The story of how she became a Goddess, anecdotes of life on the road, encounters with fellow and other often hilarious tales of a not-quite-charmed life make this quilter’s compendium a delightful patchwork to contemplate, and to treasure.

224 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[MJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so much fun to read. It's a compilation of articles written on the "trials and tribulations" of an art quilter, her family, her fabrics, her designs, and her experiences with other quilters.

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

For years I've loved how talented quilters put pieces of colorful fabric together and come up with beautiful quilts. It didn't matter the size or style or whether they were functional or artistic, I loved them all.

I've admired the art quilt for years, and this author's vibrant ones since I became acquainted with them. When I laid eyes the stunning book cover I knew instantly it was hers and had to get my hands on it. Yes, it's not a typical book (a novel)that you read a chapter at a time. It's more anecdotal, telling the reader her feelings or thoughts on different topics and how she goes about her life.

There will likely be those who will be turned off by the subject manner, presentation or easygoing style but I found it relaxing and friendly. It's quirky,funny, a little insightful, and at times irreverent, but never boring. Don't get me wrong. It's not great literature. It doesn't tell you how to make a quilt and you won't find the answer to the problems of the world. It does give you a look into the heart and world of a talented quilter, giving you just a little idea of what makes her tick.

[Gayle Wingerter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Any quilter or lover of fabrics will see themselves in this book. In this series of short essays, the book's author laughs at her quirks--from organizing her vast collection of tools to inventing methods with help from the occasional hardware store employee. The author is a quilt instructor, presenter, and award-winning artist.

[Carole at From My Carolina Home · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a quilter, this is the perfect little book of short essays. As my friend calls it, a snack read. Something to pick up for a quick thought or laugh, easy to put down and pick up again another time. Lots of very funny thoughts, how many pairs of scissors does a quilter really need anyway? Highly recommend, get several and give them to your friends.

[Suzanne · Rating 2 out of 5]

As an avid quilter I did glean some funny and identifiable content that is shared among quilters. The writing often jumped around in each chapter topic and I often found myself saying, "who cares"? Maybe a little more organization would help.... but then that is just Robbi perhaps.

[Mripma]

Gobbled this down both for the company of a woman who is unafraid to share her quirky side and for the instruction in quilting management. A fun read.

[Julie Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book of short articles. I could relate to a lot of parts, especially bags and kid's calling while they wait for a bus or are walking to class.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. Full of humour and good ideas for quilting.