Is there anything better than giving or receiving a book? Perhaps it’s a story you’ve fallen in love with and can’t wait for someone else to read, a book that reminds you of them, or a particularly beautiful edition of an old favourite that feels too special to keep to yourself.
As the evenings grow darker, the blankets come out and, dare I say it, a mince pie becomes a daily companion to a cup of tea, I start thinking about the little things that might make someone’s Christmas. Books feel like the perfect place to start.
And there’s something to be said for a book that’s as lovely to hold as it is to read. A beautiful cover, illustrations tucked between the pages, a ribbon bookmark or a handwritten note inside the front cover can turn a much-loved story into a gift to treasure for years to come. I recently received a special edition of Little Women from a friend, and it’s such a lovely gift to have on my shelves.
Here are a few books I’ve loved this year, that I think would make the perfect gift...
People in Love by Claire Daverley
I was SO excited to get my hands on this one after absolutely loving Claire Daverley’s Talking at Night. Her writing has this wonderful way of capturing the quiet, deep-rooted love that connects us, in all its messy, complicated forms. In People in Love, childhood best friends, old feelings and the life we think we’re supposed to want collide, leaving us wondering about all the what-ifs along the way.
A beautiful gift for the romantic in your life, especially if, like me, you love a story that leaves a little ache in your heart.
Strangers by Belle Burden
A deeply personal memoir about love, marriage and what happens when the life you thought you knew suddenly changes. Belle Burden reflects on the unexpected breakdown of her marriage and the process of finding herself again in its aftermath. An intimate, thought-provoking read about heartbreak, resilience and learning to trust yourself.
This is one for someone who loves a memoir, appreciates beautiful writing and enjoys reading the original before it hits the big screen.
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
If you’re looking for a book that reminds you of the goodness in people, this might just be the one. Theo of Golden follows a mysterious older man who arrives in a small Southern town and begins quietly changing the lives of the people he meets through small, thoughtful acts of kindness. It’s a gentle reminder that the smallest gestures can make the biggest difference, and that community, connection and generosity are often found in the most unexpected places.
A lovely gift for someone who could do with a little more hope in their reading life. Just a little warning: keep the tissues handy!
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
I adored every single page of this book and fell completely in love with its wonderfully stubborn, funny and complicated heroine. Told through letters and emails, we slowly piece together Sybil’s life, her regrets, her grief and the relationships that have shaped her. It’s such a human story, full of humour and heart, and one that had me laughing one minute and reaching for the tissues the next.
For the person who loves a character they can really get to know, this is a very special gift.
Love of Our Lives by Josie Balka
A collection of beautiful poems by poet and writer Josie Balka, whose voice you might recognise from so many gorgeous Reels about love, friendship, dogs, loss and longing. Her words have a way of putting feelings into sentences you didn’t quite know how to write yourself. It’s the sort of book you can dip into before bed, leave on your bedside table and return to whenever you need a little reminder of the lovely, messy business of being human.
The perfect gift for someone you love, and perhaps a little something to keep for yourself, too.
And, of course, there are so many whimsical accessories that make beautiful additions to a bookish gift, alongside creative ways to wrap books and make the whole experience a touch more personal. Even if you’re not particularly crafty, Christmas is the perfect excuse to give it a go, with no judgement, just for the joy of it.
