Recently Bestie called me and suggested I read Nancy Zieman’s book Seams Unlikely. I had seen it advertised here and there but hadn’t given it much thought until Bestie suggested I read it and give y’all a Seams Unlikely Review. I went by my local library to see if they had a copy. They didn’t, but the libraian read the reviews and ordered the book! That should tell you something.
I am so glad I heeded Bestie’s advice. This book is very inspiring. With every turn of the page I felt this underlying theme. As though Nancy was saying directly to me, “If I can do it, then anyone can do it.” This alone is very encouraging. Blended alongside her life, Nancy shares some of her difficulties. If you are a fan, then you will recognize a droop on one side of her face. This was caused by Bell’s Palsy and has been a part of her life since infancy. But beyond that there have been unbelievable physical difficulties that Nancy recalls in a matter-of-fact way. There is no pity party here. She just forges ahead through life with each speed bump.
The most poignant element to Nancy’s story is her road to success. With so many women of her generation screaming and shouting for equality, she approaches these challenges in an entirely different manner. That’s not to say that there weren’t times when Nancy had to deal with difficulties and doubtful TV producers or bankers. Nancy applies grace and courtesy to achieve her goals to become unbelievably successful ~ all without raising her fist or her voice.
The most inspiring part of Seams Unlikely is Nancy’s unwavering faith in God. Nancy manages to convey her spiritual strength without ever once getting preachy. Could this possibly be at the core of her success? I think it is. Blended alongside her faith is an indefatigable spirit, love of family, and a whole lot of Midwestern ‘can do’ attitude. This is what makes Nancy Zieman my Sewing Superhero.
I have an affiliate link to Seams Unlikely if you’d like to purchase the book. It’s available in paperback or Kindle. HOWEVER, I’m giving away one copy to a lucky reader. All you need to do is leave a comment on why you would want to read this book. The contest begins May 23, 2014 at Midnight CST and ends on May 26, 2014 at 11:59 PM CST. {Giveaway is only open to US residents because of mailing restrictions}
If you don’t qualify for this giveaway, check back on Monday, Memorial Day. I have another giveaway that I know you will L.O.V.E!
(The widget below is being cranky, if all you see is a link, just click on it and you will see the entry box. Sorry about that folks.)
Linda says
May 23, 2014 at 3:35 amThat sounds like an interesting, inspiring book. I shall have to look for it.
memaw0624 says
May 23, 2014 at 5:12 amIn our generation, I have witnested a large group of people that have few to no domestic “skills”. If it doesn’t come in a box with directions people are lost. Martha Stewart has been called the queen of (what I consider common sense) homekeeping. It is agreat incouragement to see people teaching and learning the lost “skills”. I was lucky to have some older family members that thought these skills to be of great use (and passed along). Nancy is one of those people that are unwavering in her beliefs and knowledge. I have watched her for years (not willing to admit how many) and would love to read her book.
Sincerely, Terri
Diane W says
May 23, 2014 at 11:41 amHow true. And they want it now. I seem to look at everything, as how can I make this. Course, then I get to do all these sewing projects for others. And i’d rather sew or quilt or knit for myself. I did learn to say ‘no’. Thats a forgotten word too…
Sarah says
May 23, 2014 at 5:39 amI know the name but not much else. That being the case I think I would enjoy getting to know Nancy Zieman thru this book. Thanks for following your friend’s advice and thus hosting a give away :o)
Janina says
May 23, 2014 at 6:25 amThanks for the chance to win this book.when I’ve watched Nancy’s sewing show she always seemed like such a quiet ,grounded force.
Leslie says
May 23, 2014 at 6:41 amI would say the exact same thing.
Robyn says
May 23, 2014 at 6:32 amI enjoy reading Nancy’s blog post. I love her company. I have learned a lot from her over the years. I am looking foreard to reading this book.
Carolyn G. says
May 23, 2014 at 6:55 amI only recently “discovered” Nancy on PBS when I moved to NC after retiring. Love her show and would love to read her story!
Shelley says
May 23, 2014 at 6:57 amI could use some inspiration right now.
Gina says
May 23, 2014 at 7:42 amRemember when Home Ec was a class in school? I really loved it. But most of what I learned was on my own. I would love to gift this book to my mother, an awesome seamstress, crocheter, embroiderer, and quilter! Thanks for a sweet give away.
Debra says
May 23, 2014 at 8:31 amI have wanted to read this book since first hearing about it. I have admired Nancy Zieman for longer than I care to remember. Thanks so much for the chance to win a copy!
jane d says
May 23, 2014 at 8:57 amI really like Nancy and have always found her to be so inspirational.
Dixie Thiery says
May 23, 2014 at 9:01 amI would be very interested in knowing more about Nancy Zieman and learning how she overcame all the obstacles in her life and came out on top.
Diane W says
May 23, 2014 at 9:32 amIm 52, and as a teen remember my mother admiring her. And the talent. I grew up sewing at 8 yrs old, knitting at 3 yrs. AND, now you piqued my interest, and will get this book. (If i dont win) i love when people still put their lives in God’s hands. We all should and be so thankful.
Mari says
May 23, 2014 at 10:24 amHaving read the book I agree with every statement you made. It has a few “folksy” parts when describing her early life but I even found that fascinating as it was so different from my own upbringing. This book should be read by old and young alike as each one will “take away” something different to apply to their own life. I would love to win a copy as I would then have a copy to share with others. I love to share my books. I encourage the recipient to sign it and make a remark regarding the book. I than have a treasured book with notes from friends written on the inside ~ little mini book reviews so to speak.
Thanks for a great book review. I am excited about all of the “new” happening with your blog. I appreciate that you work so hard to never let your blog get stale. I am especially excited about the addition of essential oil information.
I hope you and Mr. SH have a wonderfully relaxing Memorial Day weekend.
Woohoo summer is here.
Cheryl says
May 23, 2014 at 11:07 amThanks for the review. I could use some inspiration and encouragement.
Sharon says
May 23, 2014 at 11:49 amI love watching Nancy, she exudes such elegance and competence in humility. I also must persevere and am encouraged by the stories of those who’ve come through. Actually, a couple of years ago I googled Nancy to try to find more of her story. Although there wasn’t a lot available, I found her story fascinating. I would love to read this.
Robin W says
May 23, 2014 at 2:02 pmI’ve always enjoyed her show, but would love to learn more about her personal journey. Thanks for the chance!
Stephanie says
May 23, 2014 at 3:53 pmI would be every interested to read Nancy’s story. She has long been of interest to me. Thx for the opportunity!
Elizabeth says
May 23, 2014 at 8:49 pmThanks for the giveaway, I would love to read this book.
AnnJanette McMurtrey says
May 23, 2014 at 9:05 pmNancy Zieman is one of my heroes!! I teach middle school FCS which includes sewing. I have used her videos to help me make my lessons plans. She explains things in such a simple concise way, it is so useful for explanations and step by step directions. I couldn’t do it with out her.
Karen says
May 23, 2014 at 11:07 pmSeems very interesting and informative.
Sherri Viljoen says
May 24, 2014 at 9:43 amThis book would be great blessing and encouraging for other when I finish it. I love reading, sewing and quilting. I struggle with organization, which in turn makes me depressed from time to time. I left a job I had for 14 years, just a year ago, unexpectedly. I can’t quite find my direct from here. At first I did some deep cleaning and packed up all me old work clothes to be rid of them. Soon after all our friends in my Sunday school class have be a great support, with encouragement, love, just being friends. One friend Élan, is from my class is so dear she’s been encourage me to try something new use my talents in sewing and start my own business. Élan asked me for help on reupholstering her dinning room chair. I gladly helped her, she in turn felt she must pay me. She wanted to bless me back. Others have paid me to do drapes, and I finish a quilt for Gene it was his wife’s last quilts, she pasted away. I did a block of the month quilt with me sweet sister-in-law who speed us along so fast I had a hard time keeping up. We used skype and found or designed our own blocks along the way. Some weeks we did 3 blocks others were a bit more challenging for us. We finish the 12 blocks in 3 months. I had a hard time this past year, but thanks to my God, husband, friends and family I am making it. Money is really tight my husband has had a job change just 16 months before my job leave. But God has blessed us though all this and shown Himself many time to us while we are be challenged, stretched and molded for His glory. We are making it.
Lisa Johnston says
May 24, 2014 at 11:52 amI am focusing on developing my sewing skills as I anticipate an empty next. My sewing plans distract me and every stitch calms me. As sad as I will be when my daughter moves out, I console myself with the plan that her bedroom will become my sewing room! I would love to read about Nancy for inspiration on dealing with hardship and on developing my love for sewing into a fruitful occupation for the next stage of my life. I hope I might win the book.
Sally says
May 24, 2014 at 1:25 pmNew visitor to your blog here. This is so inspiring . I love the quote about not letting challenges define us unless we want to. I hadn’t heard of Nancy but you made me want to find out more. Thank you for sharing!
Judith Ann says
May 25, 2014 at 8:22 amI am amazed that my local library network hasn’t ordered this, and after reading your review, I just sent a purchase request in to them. We certainly have all her wonderful books, and I’m sure this is going to be a great read.
Kim says
May 25, 2014 at 12:39 pmI like biographies, especially about women. I have always admired Nancy Z with her quiet manner on PBS. I have several of her sewing books. They have helped me along the way, especially when I was learning to make a lot of my own clothes. She is very knowledgeable and very precise and gives great directions and tips, a born teacher who obviously loves what she does and that comes across via her books and the TV screen.
Kate says
May 26, 2014 at 11:51 amNancy has certainly done a lot to encourage women – in the world of sewing and as a role model. I remember meeting her several years ago at a Sewing Expo in San Antonio. Like so many of us, I watched her show for years and learned so much from her. I’d love to read her bio.
Deborah Olson says
May 26, 2014 at 12:42 pmI have always admired Nancy & look forward to reading her book.
Lisa says
May 26, 2014 at 11:34 pmGreat book! Will be looking for this online. Thanks for writing about it!
Mildred Harris says
May 27, 2014 at 7:39 pmI would love to read this book. I was in a class that Nancy taught in 1988, I have 2 of her books from then.
She has been a great inspiration to many people through out the years. I am thankful to be following her again.