Yes, it’s that time of year when the gift list is long and the time to buy everything suddenly seems very short. But never fear! Buying a present for the writer or book lover in your life doesn’t have to be complicated.
Below is a list full of fun ideas at a variety of different price points that will hopefully get you excited about giving. Whether you’re looking for something whimsical, practical, or just want to add a little bit of happiness into your loved one’s life, remember to take a moment to enjoy the season!
Throw pillow
What better way to show your love and appreciation for a favorite author or book than to give it a permanent home on your couch? It’s easy to find a premade throw pillow emblazoned with the classics, whether it’s a particularly memorable Jane Austen quote (aren’t they all?!) or a pithy one-liner from Shakespeare himself.
For more modern or obscure references, you may want to hit up a custom seller on a website like Etsy. There you’ll find individuals who would be happy to custom make a throw pillow cover that meets your specific requirements. Now your loved one can snuggle up with their favorite author or book any time.
Temporary tattoos
OK, I have to admit that I got this idea from my husband, who surprised me with a pack of temporary tattoos consisting of various Jane Eyre quotes—and it was possibly my favorite gift ever. There are so many choices out there that it’s highly likely you’ll hit upon a set that speaks to you. The tattoos are a playful little addition when leaving the house, whether it’s to a book club meeting or a party. And since they wash off in a day or two, there’s absolutely no commitment required.
A subscription to a writer’s magazine
If your loved one enjoys learning about the craft of writing, they’ll likely love a subscription to one of the many different literary magazines out there. These publications focus on improving writing skills with lots of helpful tips, include original stories and poems, and often feature interviews with both up-and-coming and established authors.
Different magazines sometimes focus on different genres of writing, so make sure you either know what the writer in your life likes to specialize in, or aim for one of the more generic ones. Some standouts include Poetry (published by The Poetry Foundation), The Paris Review, and McSweeney’s. And of course we can’t pass up the opportunity to recommend a subscription to our own Kirkus Reviews!
Bathtub pillow
Some people get their best writing or reading done while soaking in a tub. And if nothing else, sometimes it takes a bit of relaxing to really get the creative juices flowing. Make the whole process a little more comfortable with a waterproof pillow specifically designed to hook over the edge of the bathtub. Most of them are memory foam–like, which allows the user to really sink in and make the most of their soak.
Fancy pen
Yes, yes, I know that the vast majority of authors use the computer now to write their manuscripts. But there’s still something so romantic and creative about the idea of writing with an old-fashioned pen. Go all out and get a fountain one with a separate ink well, or modernize it slightly with just a really nice luxury ballpoint. Either way, it’s guaranteed to give some major writer vibes.
A journal
There is perhaps no better companion to that fancy pen mentioned above than a beautiful new journal in which to use it. Think thick cream-colored pages sandwiched between a cover that pays homage to your loved one’s favorite book or author. I recommend sticking with journals that have lined pages, unless your writer is also an illustrator—and in that case blank pages may also work.
Blanket
When it’s not enough to simply have your favorite book on your bookshelf, it’s time to ramp it up and wrap yourself up in it! Many online stores and independent sellers have a long list of titles from which to choose, with various cover designs. It would also go perfectly on the couch next to that personalized throw pillow (just saying!).
Desk lamp
For the writer who never knows when they will be struck by inspiration—seriously, why does it always seem to happen in the middle of the night?—a lamp can be the perfect addition to any author’s desk. Whether they want to add a soft glow at night or simply brighten up their workspace during the day, a desk lamp can do wonders when it comes to easing eye strain and setting the mood for a productive writing session.
Writing workshop
If your loved one is really serious about improving their craft, a writing workshop may be the perfect way to hone skills and get constructive feedback. If an in-person workshop is out of the question, consider gifting an online one conducted via a video conference platform like Zoom. There are plenty of workshop options based on preferred genre, format, and time length. The possibilities are endless!
Andrea Moran lives outside of Nashville with her husband and two kids. She’s a professional copywriter and editor who loves all things books. Find her on LinkedIn.
