A Knot Is Not a Tangle

Written by Daniel Nayeri, Illustrated by Vesper Stamper

A simple yet informative story about a boy, his grandparents, and tradition. Making a traditional family rug is not a simple task! The story walks readers through the process of a family making a rug: where they get their wool and how they color it, how designs are created and how they came up with their own design, how they create their rug, and a touching tale about how the loom they use came about. The boy soon learns that just because his family has a new rug, the old one should still be cherished. The author’s note at the end shares great additional information. The vibrant illustrations add a story of their own.

Reviewed by Dana Valencia, Librarian, Oakridge Elementary
Review shared in February 2026
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades PreK-3

A Knot is Not a Tangle
Written by Daniel Nayeri, Illustrated by Vesper Stamper
Alfred A. Knopf
48 pages
Release Date: November 25, 2025
ISBN: 9780593809693
A review copy was provided by the publisher.