Did you know that you can do all of your holiday shopping in one place? Oh yes, it is possible. Just go to your local bookstore. The key when giving someone a book as a gift is to personalize it. Take some time to put a personal inscription in the book.
In the next couple of weeks, Caitlin and I will give you book gift suggestions for everyone on your list.
Dog Lover
For the dog lover in your life, go beyond “Marley & Me” and put some effort into your choice. Try “The Story of Edgar Sawtelle” by David Wroblewski, a story about a family who raises a fictional breed of dog. Or if your dog lover is more inclined to listen to the advice of a talking dog, get “Nose Down, Eyes Up” by Merrill Markoe.
Non-Reader
Let’s face it, not everyone likes to read. For the non-reader on your list, get anything by Frank Warren whose titles include “Post Secret,” “My Secret,” and “Secret Lives of Men and Women.” The books are compilations of anonymous post cards he solicited from men and women throughout the country revealing their deepest secrets. They range from depressing to unbelievably funny.
World Traveler
This list is endless. “Three Cups of Tea” by Greg Mortenson is a good start and sure to inspire the world traveler in your life. It chronicles one man’s journey to promote peace by building schools in remote parts of Pakistan. You could also pick up “Into Thin Air” by John Krakauer and perhaps inspire your world traveler to climb Mount Everest. Stranger things have happened.
Little Tykes
There is no better book for the little tyke on your list than “Love You Forever” by Robert Munsch. Seriously, “Love you forever, like you for always, as long as I’m living, my baby you’ll be.” If that doesn’t bring a tear to your eye, nothing will. And it is so much better than a plastic toy that will undoubtedly break five minutes after its opened.
Movie Buff
Roger Ebert has a number of books out there that any movie buff is sure to enjoy. I personally like
“Your Movie Sucks” but you could also try “The Great Movies, which includes Ebert’s essays on
100 movies ranging from Citizen Kane (of course) to Beauty and the Beast. If you are feeling especially generous, pick up “The Great Movies II” as well.
Next week, find out what to buy the Football Fanatic, Intellectual, Loving Grandma and Foodie on your holiday shopping list.
— NATALIE