The mittens, gloves, tams, and sock patterns are basic and simple patterns that I was having difficulty finding in multiple sizes (why is it that pattern books have loads of "fancy" variations on mittens and socks, but not simple patterns for those of us learning to make them?) While learning how to make a new item (like gloves), it is nice to have a simple pattern to learn with. I also like to knit gifts for family and friends. Being able to use a simple pattern makes it easy to create that "last minuet" gift for someone.
My creativity has also been challenged using this book. There are edging and finishing options for many of the patterns in the books, so there is some verity. There are hundreds of possibilities with the patterns in this book. Besides the ability of use the yarn of my choice, I have included things like stripes and Fair Isle designs in the basic patterns (I keep graph paper in the handy pocket on the back cover).
Another thing I like about this book, it is spiral bound, so it will lay flat! No more fighting with a pattern book that refuses to stay open!
As an intermediate knitter who would rather play with yarn than futz with a pattern, I highly recommend this book. If you want basic patterns to learn with, I highly recommend this book. If you want to make a gift for someone with a really great yarn you found, this is a great book.