Hunting for the perfect gift comes with its own challenges. Sure, the holidays are a magical time, and it’s a great feeling to show your family and friends how much you appreciate them through a thoughtful gift. But finding a gift that is truly meaningful, personal, and shows you know the person can sometimes be a real struggle.
It’s not that you don’t know the person well; it’s just that there are so many unspoken rules about gift-giving. You don’t want to give something generic, but you also don’t want to pick something they might already have or won’t use.
So, what about a book? Books can make the best gifts. If you agree, you’re not alone: according to a survey by ThriftBooks, 54% of gift givers plan to give books this holiday season.
And honestly, can you blame them? A good book can feel like a doorway to another world. It can change perspectives, and it’s not just an object…it’s an experience you’re gifting. What other gift has that kind of power?
Also, let’s be honest: books are one of the most affordable gifts that don’t make you look like a cheapskate either.
Today, we’ll share fresh ideas for what books to gift your fellow reader friends. We’ll also let you know what research says about what recipients appreciate most in a book gift.
- The Joy of Book Gifting: What Research Says
- The Art of Book Gifting: How to Choose the Perfect Book Gift
- Book Gifting Ideas for Every Occasion
- Why Books Make the Best Gifts
The Joy of Book Gifting: What Research Says
Books aren’t just thoughtful gifts, they’re loved by all generations. According to ThriftBooks research, the top genres vary depending on age. Here’s the breakdown:
- Gen Z: Fantasy (52%)
- Millennials: Action and Adventure (41%)
- Gen X: Thriller and Suspense (42%)
- Baby Boomers: Mystery (29%)
And it’s not just about genres. The survey also found that 33% of readers have received unexpected book gifts: sometimes odd titles like Snakes in Suits (which is about office psychopaths). Some were a bit confused by the choice, while others said it turned out to be a fun surprise.
Oh, and here’s another interesting stat: 30% of readers have a tradition of rereading favorite books during the holidays. Gen Z and millennials lead this trend.
The art of book gifts has turned into an actual holiday tradition in some countries. It’s called Jolabokaflod and we can absolutely recommend adopting this tradition as your own if your family loves to read.
The Art of Book Gifting: How to Choose the Perfect Book Gift
Picking the right book can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Here are some strategies and recommendations so you know exactly what to get:
Go by Genre
Stick with what they already enjoy. If they’re into thrillers, books by Freida McFadden are sure to captivate. For fantasy fans, consider gifting Urban Fantasy, Adult Fantasy or even Harry Potter books that transport them to magical worlds and spark their imagination.
Pop Culture Connection
Tie your gift to their favorite shows, movies, or hobbies. A Bridgerton-inspired historical romance like A Lady for a Duke is a great choice, or find a music biography for a Taylor Swift fan (All Too Well vibes, anyone?).
Hobbies and Interests
Think about their passions. For foodies, cookbooks filled with creative and practical recipes make an excellent gift. For those who enjoy plant-based cuisine, vegan cookbooks are a thoughtful option. Have a friend who loves gardening? Consider gifting them gardening books filled with tips and inspiration for cultivating beautiful and thriving gardens.
Special Editions
Rare Editions of books and even Comic Books, or illustrated versions of classics like Little Women or The Lord of the Rings make stunning and personal gifts.
Creative Touches
Make your book gifts even more special with a book bouquet or try one of these creative ideas for wrapping books.
Book Gifting Ideas for Every Occasion
Books can be great Christmas gift ideas, no matter the occasion:
- Holiday Gift Exchanges: Stick to lighthearted and broadly appealing options like The Christmas Pig by J.K. Rowling (one of the best Christmas book for kids). Add a cozy blanket or a hot cocoa mix for extra holiday vibes.
- Close Friends and Family: Make it personal with a book that reflects their personality or interests. Add a handwritten note about why you picked it (it’s the thought that counts)!
- Secret Santa: Go quirky or fun. A book like Stuff You Should Know or a trivia collection is a great icebreaker for work or friend gatherings.
Really, anytime there are gifts being exchanged, books are a great idea. They can find their way into stocking stuffers and graduation presents alike. But they make especially great Christmas present ideas because free time + cold weather = perfect reading setting.
Why Books Make the Best Gifts
At the end of the day, books are stories, adventures, and ideas wrapped up in a package that fits neatly under the tree. We couldn’t imagine a better gift than that.
So, if you’re gifting for the holidays, a birthday, or just because, gifting a book is a great way to make people feel seen and valued.
Since there are so many different genres, editions, and creative ways to package them, there really is a book for everyone. Even non-readers can be swayed by a comic, a manga, a recipe book, or something that relates to their hobbies.
If you need some more holiday-specific inspiration, check out these Christmas gifts for book lovers. And if you want to give a gift that keeps on giving, maybe one of the best book subscription boxes would be a great idea.
So go ahead and gift a book this year. You might just be giving the most memorable present they’ll unwrap.
