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Debut Novel Stitched Becomes Surprise Hit
9 Oct
Summary
- Eli McCann's debut novel "Stitched" became a bestseller unexpectedly.
- The book tells a story about a quilting group welcoming gay men.
- A small nonprofit press in Salt Lake City published the novel.
Eli McCann's debut novel, "Stitched," has emerged as an unlikely bestseller, debuting at number five on the paperback list. The novel, published by the small Salt Lake City-based nonprofit Torrey House Press, tells the story of a quilting association in Ogden, Utah, that welcomes two gay men.
McCann, also a humor columnist for The Salt Lake Tribune, faced numerous rejections from publishers who were unsure how to market a story focused on an older women's quilting group. He persevered, signing with Torrey House Press in September 2026.
To promote the book, McCann utilized social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, sharing personal anecdotes and stories. One video recounting a humorous childhood memory of his mother discussing quilting drama went viral in the weeks leading up to the book's release.
The success of "Stitched" has resonated particularly with the quilting community, with quilt shops and guilds across the country hosting events. McCann expressed deep gratitude, stating that if readers take away the importance of community built through shared hobbies, he will have achieved his goal.
