A book is always a great gift … especially if you take the time to match the recipient’s taste in fiction or nonfiction. Whether your relatives or friends are interested in the Civil War, literature, romance novels, westerns, paranormal fiction, railroads, guns, cooking, collecting old comic books, antique automobiles, or anything else, there's always a book that will bring a smile to their face.
Top Dozen Tips for Book Gift Giving
- There are books about every hobby and interest in the world. Picking the right book shows you care.
- Write a personal message on the flyleaf that won't get tossed out like last year's Christmas card.
- Write surprise messages in the margin of random pages.
- Search out an author signing for your recipient’s favorite author, or give a collector’s version of the recipient’s favorite book.
- If you need professional help or want something unique, shop at an independent or specialty bookstore.
- If you subscribe to Amazon Prime then shipping is free, or mail books early to take advantage of media class at the Post Office.
- Give a book as a piece of art, like a fine print book, a unique coffee table book, a favorite book as a child, or collectible cover art.
- Create a highly personal photo book.
- Give a bookseller gift card for e-book and audiobook enthusiasts.
- College students will appreciate a gift card for their campus bookstore.
- Tuck crisp currency into the flyleaf as a bookmark.
- If your friend or relative already owns piles of books, give them a unique set of bookends to hold them in their proper place.
Children's books are also great gifts. We search for autographed storybooks for our grandkids. Bookstores always have children's book signings around the holidays. The icing on the cake is that we get to read from one of these books when we visit.
Books are a great entertainment value. They provide hour upon hour of personal pleasure, and then they can be passed on to another person. What could be better?
