Thin yarn plus big needles = frustrating practice. Thicker yarn (in wool per the book recommendation) + big needles (plus a few tips from *YOU AWESOME PEOPLE* = much better practice results
Wool Needles | Hobby Lobby | 1623297
Knitter's Pride Wool Needle Set - Ayarna
Knitters Pride Wool Needles
LEARN TO KNIT - LESSON 1: Choosing Yarn and Needles / Yay For Yarn - YouTube