It’s the most wonderful time of the year—the time when you get to shower your friends and family with gifts that they will (hopefully) love. But what about that one person, the one whose bookshelves are overflowing with everything from the classics to the newest paperback thrillers? If you don’t want to take a chance on finding a book they haven’t read yet, take a look at this quick list for ideas on what to get the lit lover in your life.
1. Items emblazoned with their favorite books
For the classics nerd (raising my hand right now), there is nothing more exciting than seeing your favorite novel covering something that is decidedly not a book. From posters to totes to blankets to T-shirts—the list goes on. Just browse through the seller’s book offerings, choose the item, and voilà: the perfect gift. Just keep in mind that this requires knowing your gift recipient’s favorite book (or at least something in their top ten).
2. Little Free Library kit
Chances are you’ve seen them: those little wooden houses on people’s front lawns that could almost be mistaken for a birdhouse upon first glance . . . except that they’re filled with books. A Little Free Library kit is a great gift for the altruistic book lover in your life, one who enjoys not only reading but passing on that enjoyment to others. And don’t worry—it comes with super simple instructions and all the materials provided (except the books!), so this isn’t a particularly labor-intensive project.
3. Reading light
This is an underrated stocking stuffer that could come in enormously handy for those night-owl book lovers. While you can always go for the cutesy bedside lamp, don’t stop there—the options are seemingly endless when it comes to style and preference. There are lights that hook around the back of the neck, lights that clip on to a book, lights that clamp to a bed’s headboard—whatever you choose, their eyes will thank you.
4. Jigsaw puzzle
Who doesn’t love a challenging jigsaw puzzle? Well, OK, plenty of people don’t (my dear husband included), but a lot of people do—and this could be the gift for them! The only thing that makes puzzles more enjoyable is doing one covered in the image of a beloved book. Or perhaps one featuring the top one hundred greatest American novels. Or even just a picture of someone relaxing while reading a book. Whether it’s a five hundred piece or one thousand piece or beyond, there are plenty of literary themes out there from which to choose.
5. Bookshelf
I’m not talking one of those giant floor-to-ceiling wooden ones (although those are gorgeous). Nowadays, you can find funky bookshelves for just about any interest or size requirement. Is your gift recipient short on space? Consider a mini bookshelf or even one that hangs on the wall. Trust me, you can never have enough space to store books.
6. Tea bags
What goes better together than books and tea? (The answer is nothing, by the way.) Now your gift recipient can cozy up with a hot cup of tea, using a tea bag adorned with a witty and inspirational literary quote, while reading their favorite novel. I can’t help but think that Jane Austen would approve!
7. Candles
There’s nothing like the smell of a book. Whether it’s old and weathered or fresh from the printing press, there’s just something about that heady blend of ink and paper. Luckily, there are ways to replicate that even when you’re not reading. Plenty of companies offer book- or library-scented candles. If you know your loved one’s favorite book or series, you can take it one step further and buy a set of candles inspired by some of the world’s most popular novels. From Harry Potter to Lord of the Rings, these candles are crafted to enhance the reading experience—and give a whole new meaning to having your nose in a book.
8. Bathtub caddy
There’s something about reading a book that’s inherently relaxing—a couple of quiet minutes away in another world. Combine that feeling with a warm soak in the tub, and you’ve got yourself a blissful evening in. A bathtub caddy makes that combo even easier to pull off. It's essentially a giant tray that hangs over the tub, and you can find beautiful ones in pretty much any material you prefer (I personally love the wooden ones) with enough room to fit a book, a candle (see above!), and even a glass of wine if they’re so inclined.
9. Repurposed books
This item might be a bit controversial for those who cringe at the idea of destroying books in the name of art. But rest assured, you can find shops that use only books that are already in damaged condition. They then turn those into beautiful household items, from plant holders to sculptures to bookmarks to mail holders and beyond. If you feel like going DIY this year, you can even watch some YouTube videos to find out how to turn your own (damaged) books into art.
10. Book subscription
If absolutely nothing but books will do, consider signing your loved one up for a book subscription service. There are so many out there to choose from. Some offer just books in the form of a book-of-the-month club. Others are geared specifically for YA readers. And still others not only send books but also little goodies and knickknacks along with the book itself (think socks, coffee, etc.). Your recipient will be able to choose the genre of books they would like to receive, which ensures they won’t get any repeats from what’s already on their shelf.
Hopefully this list sparks some gift ideas for the literary lover in your life. In the meantime, I’m wishing you a healthy and happy holiday season . . . and perhaps a few spare moments to settle in with a good book.
Andrea Moran lives outside Nashville. She’s a professional copywriter and editor who loves all things books. Find her on LinkedIn.
