Mason-Dixon Knitting is easy to get into — approachable and accessible — and it focuses on knitting items you will use daily, that you will love, that you will be proud to gives as gifts, and that recipients will be delighted to use.
The authors use an informal, even goofy, way to cheer you on in trying new techniques. Its theme — "Complex things are often very simple. And simple things can be very beautiful" — means that the patterns are meant to be customized according to your taste and skill. They're challenging enough to keep you engaged, easy enough to be fun. It's a satisfying combination.