Though 2020 is unlike any other year, we’re still rolling into my favorite part of the year — the part where I can shop as much as I want and not feel bad about it, because I’m buying gifts for other people! If you’re like me, you probably have some bookish friends you need to shop for, or you may be making your own bookish wish list, or a little bit of both. Hopefully this Bookish Gift Guide helps you on your way...
Gifts for your book club
Despite being in various (and multiple) book clubs for almost a decade now, I’ve never done a gift exchange with my fellow book club members. That changes this year, and I’m SO excited. Here are some fun book club-themed gifts for your favorite reading buddies:
Book Club Cocktail Napkins
Funny and oh-so-true. Perfect for your fellow hosts/hostesses. Buy here
Personalized Tote
This tote is great because it doesn’t break the bank (great if you’re on a budget or trying to make the most of your $20 exchange limit) but it’s also personalized.
There are LOTS of clever and/or gorgeous bookish totes out there, though, so if this one isn’t your jam, you’re not hurting for options. Buy here
Book Club Cookie Cutter
For those who like to bake… and don’t mind playful foul language. Buy here
Book Club Candle
Enjoy the book club ambience even when you’re not at book club. Buy here
Book Tracking Journal
Make it easier for your fellow bookworms to keep track of what they’re reading — even better that it includes space for notes so you’re never at a loss for what to discuss when you get to your next meeting! Created by a fellow book blogger, this tracker is comprehensive and customizable, meaning you can create a gift that's truly unique to its recipient. Buy here (Use code THB20 to receive 20% off your purchase.)
If you prefer an off-the-shelf tracking journal, this option is great too.
Book-inspired Spices
Gift a book blend, inspired by your favorite book club pick or an upcoming selection. Lots of options — including popular reads like A Gentleman in Moscow and Where the Crawdads Sing — that will make those book club treats extra delicious. Use code HUNGRYBOOKWORM20 to save 5% on your order. Buy here
Their Favorite Beverage
Whether they prefer tea, coffee or cocoa, there’s a perfect pairing for everyone. Consider a bookish tea blend, coffee sampler, or these super tempting hot chocolate bombs. Of course, a bottle of your book club’s favorite wine is another option.
Gifts for reading spaces
Have a friend who’s got a new book nook or a growing library? Help them make it even more bookish and cozy with these thoughtful gifts:
Bookish Posters
Scratch-off posters like this one are both fun and functional. (I love the one I got as a gift!) If you know some of their favorite books, a personalized print is a beautiful way to showcase them.
Book Cart
A rolling book cart is a must for bookworms these days — especially if they’re on bookstagram! It’s a great way to organize your TBR and makes for a useful backdrop for photos. Buy here
Decorative Book Letters
These letters look so cute on any shelf and can double as a bookend for a not-quite-full shelf. Buy here
Throw Pillows
This is one of my favorites, but you can’t go wrong with basically anything from this Etsy shop.
Book swap gifts
Book swaps and holiday gift exchanges can be so fun, but they can also be a little stressful! If you’re mailing your gift, you need to be mindful of weight, and if there’s a cost limit, you need to figure out how to get the most for your money. These gifts are both lightweight and inexpensive, so they make great adds to your bookish packages for swaps or for something extra to include in your in-person gift exchange:
Bookmarks
You can’t go wrong with bookmarks! These are some of my favorites, but aside from Etsy, local indies and other gift shops are the perfect place to look for them, too.
Vintage Library Bookmark, Plantable Bookmark, Don’t Forget Your Spot! Bookmark
Stickers
Again, there’s something for everyone here — and you can get real specific. It’s always fun to encourage people to read more books.
Book Plates
These are perfect for people who unabashedly lend their books (or foist them on others). My favorite part of these are where it says "return." For some borrowers, it's doesn't hurt to have a reminder! Buy here
If space or cost isn’t an issue, a book stamp is also a great gift! I personally like the self-inking ones for convenience, but something about the wooden handled version reminds me of old libraries and makes me happy.
Book Sleeves
These are a cute way to keep your books protected when you’re on the go. Another gift where there are lots of options, so pick the one that speaks to you. Buy here
For the practical reader
Floating Shelves
Running out of space for books? Just hang them on the walls! I used these in all of my apartments, and not only were they useful for storage, they were a great conversation piece. (The large works best for cookbooks or large coffee table-type books, the small size works well for novels.) Buy here
Page Holder
For one-handed reading, this is the perfect accessory! Buy here
Book Light
A good book light should not be underestimated, and it’s always a good idea to have a backup. This one is rechargeable and has warm light, so the only thing keeping you up at night will be finishing the next chapter. Buy here
Fingerless Gloves
I’m probably not alone in getting cold hands when I read in the winter. Fingerless gloves can help keep them (a bit) warmer, plus they’re super cute. This pair is inspired by the popular series Outlander, but there are lots of options out there. Buy here
Treat yo’ self! (Splurge gifts)
Organic Cotton Throw
I adore Maggie’s Organics’ socks and this blanket will help you get that cozy feeling all over! Plus, it'll look lovely draped over a comfy chair when you're not cuddled up underneath it. Use code BOOKWORM to save $10 off orders of $35 or more through Dec 31, 2020. Buy here
AirPods
For audiobook lovers, a good set of headphones are necessary. The Pro version helps to cancel outside noise for an immersive experience. If you’re not an audiobook fan, AirPods are my preferred way to listen to bookish podcasts on the go or while I’m doing chores around the house. Buy here
A Little Free Library
This can be a splurge one way or the other. If you buy a premade LFL, it’s certainly easier on you but costs more; if you’re handy, you could make it yourself — you’ll save some money, but it’ll be a labor of love. (The official LFL site includes directions on how to build your own.) Either way, it’s a gift that’s perfect for the bookworm that has everything. Buy here
Book Box Subscription
There is a book subscription for everyone, but one of my favorites is the Health Tea Book Crate. Each box is curated around a monthly theme and features a hand-selected, recently released fiction novel, a tea (or coffee) from a small vendor, and several self-care products and bookish goods that support local artisans. They are beautiful and thoughtfully put together, and your purchase is supporting a small, women-owned business. If you use the code HUNGRYBOOK you’ll receive 10% off any subscription purchase — buy here
As amazing as these gifts are, remember, if you're ever unsure of what to buy a bookworm...
Garrison Keillor
Check out my list of favorites on bookshop.org for inspiration.
What are some of your favorite bookish gifts you've given or received over the years? I'd love to hear in the comments!
This post contains affiliate links. This does not increase the price you pay, but I may receive a small commission for any products you choose to buy. Purchases made through affiliate links help to cover my blogging costs. Thank you for helping to support The Hungry Bookworm! Full disclosure here.
I just bought myself a book cart finally!! Also I may be requesting that book subscription box for Christmas!
Yay! I use my cart for my TBR (though it overflows to my bookshelf...); what are you using yours for?
Wow! You must have spent such a long time crafting this post. I love it. (And, if you're comfortable with it, I'd love to riff on the first part and come up with a book club gift guide for one of upcoming my posts! Totes crediting you with the idea, duh.) I'm totally buying that cookie cutter for every one of my book club girls. It will be amazing.
Go for it! That would be such a compliment! (I did spend a lot of time on this one, you're right.) And, that cookie cutter is one of my favorite things on the list. It's perfect.
<3 Done. I am super excited to write this post now! It'll be a lot of fun.