BLOGMAS DAY FIVE: Books That Would Make Good Gifts

As someone who loves books as much as I do; one would thing I gave books as gifts often, but I rarely do. Most of my close family and friends do read, just not enough that they want books as gifts. I have given a few people books and I think (hope) they liked them well enough. But, here are some books I would give for gifts if I knew people who wanted books (or to people who I wanted to force books onto).

FOR THE…

NON READER: I would recommend a celebrity memoir written by someone they like. Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Mindy Kaling all have great memoirs. Also, to hop on the hype train; Becoming by Michelle Obama would be a very timely gift. But, above all else; make sure it is a celebrity or public figure they like or admire otherwise (speaking from experience) the books are not as enjoyable.

ROMANCE READER:  Any of Mariana Zapata’s books. Her books are semi pricey and would make a nice gift. Check out her website where they are a little cheaper than other retailers and she offers signed copies (if you’re not in a rush to get it asap). We have reviewed a few of her books, See links at the bottom if you are interested in our thoughts. 

YA NOVICE: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo. This is an epic heist YA novel, that most people love. If they are new to Young Adult novels, this would be a great place to start. If they don’t like fantasy; I would suggest any of Morgan Matson’s books. 

YA CONTEMPORARY LOVER: Always Never Yours by Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka. This book flew a little bit under the radar which is an OUTRAGE. It would make the perfect gift for someone who loves YA contemporary, but maybe isn’t aware of every single one that was released in 2018. Also, Aminah Mae’s Not the Girls You’re Looking For was an under hyped contemporary, that I really enjoyed. (Check out this post for more lesser known contemporary novels: HERE)

POETRY NOVICE (OR LOVER): Amanda Lovelace’s work is very accessible— even for non poetry people. I would also recommend lovely seeds by RH Swaney and Sophia Elaine Hansen’s works. If you are looking for something more specific check out this post: POETRY RECOMMENDATIONS: A Guide

CASUAL READER:  The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid. This book blew me away and has mass appeal. Otherwise, just pick a book from the current NY Times Bestseller’s list, because then you’ll be relevant.

NONFICTION LOVER: Select a topic they are passionate about or that they seem to have a general interest in. My dad once received a book about salt and salt mining. My dad has no interest in salt and thus did not read it. As a general recommendation; I would recommend Hamilton: The Revolution by Lin-Manuel Miranda; this is another one that is a little pricey so they might be hesitant to get it for themselves. I have received this book as a gift. twice. 

PERSON WHO HAS ALL THE BOOKS: Get them a special edition of one of their favorite books, if they are into hoarding books. Which if they have all the books—they are. 

Also, YOUR favorite books alway make special gifts. Just try to not take it personally when they don’t read them. 

In case anyone cares, here are some books I have actually given as gifts:
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
I am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
Just Listen by Sarah Dessen
Just One Day & Just One Year by Gayle Forman
Gmorning, Gnight!: Little Pep Talks for Me & You by Lin-Manuel Miranda & Jonny Sun

Happy Holidays! 
xoxo, Tree 

Mariana Zapata Reviews:
BOOK REVIEW: From Lukov with Love
BOOK REVIEW: The Wall of Winnipeg & Me
MINI REVIEWS: September & October  (I talk about her book Under Locke in this post)
BOOK REVIEW: Rhythm, Chord & Malykhin