Books for Christmas? How novel.
My 2023 gift guide coming at you early this year to help you shop small!
Happy Wednesday, friends! This week has flown by and I found myself putting the final details on this late Tuesday night. It seems like creating a gift guide is the ever popular thing to do, but I had so much fun creating one last year I decided to do it again! Plus, it’s quite the challenge to come up with categories and books that fit. Hopefully I’ve risen to the occasion — although I suppose you will be the judge of that! The books featured are ones I’ve read within the last couple years and have really enjoyed. While I’ve only placed one book in a category, there are obviously many others that are also worth mentioning (and several of the following titles would fit in multiple categories). Links included go to my reviews and where you can order a copy for yourself. As always, if you’re planning to shop local, be sure to do so early — it really makes a difference!
For the one who has everything: The Book of Charlie by David Von Drehle
This book caught me by surprise and I’m still thinking about it! (Special thanks to Snail on the Wall and Simon & Schuster for a copy to read!)For the challenger: Stories From the Tenants Downstairs by Sidik Fofana
Each character in these stories had so much heart, and it really made me think about my perspective. (Special thanks to Simon & Schuster for a copy to read!)For the Christmas enthusiast: The Christmas Appeal by Janice Hallett
In this epistolary novel, nothing says Christmas like a little murder…. (Special thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for a copy to review!)For the thriller lover: None of This is True by Lisa Jewell
This book is propulsive and WILD. (Special thanks to Snail on the Wall and Atria Books for a copy to review!)
For the life time learner: The Night Travelers by Armando Lucas Correa
I loved the lyrical writing in this novel, and learned so much about a side of WWII often not discussed. (Special thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for a copy to read!)For the nature lover: These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant
One of my final reads of 2021, this atmospheric read packed a punch in the most grace-filled way.For the memoir fan: How to Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair
Rich in lyrical descriptions of tough subject matter, this memoir was well worth the read in order to gain another’s perspective. (Special thanks to Snail on the Wall and Simon & Schuster for a copy to read!)For the feel good reader: The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise by Colleen Oakly
Take a little feel good vibes and add a dash of adventure to your plate! This will be a book you didn’t know you needed.For the arm chair sleuth: The Red House Mystery by A. A. Milne
Yes, the author of Winnie the Pooh wrote exactly one cosy locked room murder mystery.For the nonfiction lover: Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
And make sure it’s the audio version — even if they “don’t read audiobooks.” Just trust me.For the emotionally literate one: One Summer in Savannah by Terah Shelton Harris
Never have I ever read a book with characters so dedicated to emotional literacy and healing over such a hard circumstance. It was a breath of fresh air.For the art lover: The Second Ending by Michelle Hoffman
This sweet tale will have you cheering for its main characters as they rise to the challenges thrown at them. (Special thanks to Ballentine Books and NetGalley for a copy to read!)For the activist: As Long As the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh
This book takes place during a war set in Syria and may remind you of certain current world events. It is 100000% worth the read.For the wanna be time traveler: The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer
This one is for fans of Nancy Drew/Hardy Boys, Harry Potter, and Series of Unfortunate Events!For the history buff: Peach Blossom Spring by Melissa Fu
Inspired by the author’s own family history, this debut novel showcases a multi-generational saga spanning 70 years. Tough with a lot of heart, you’ll learn a lot about a well discussed time period as you encounter these characters.For the tiny human in your life: Boo Who? by Ben Clanton
I have never heard my two year old giggle as uncontrollably as he did while reading this book. It’s a hoot. (Although when I asked him what he would recommend, it’s the awesome nonfiction book about things that go.)One off my bookshelf: Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka
Confession: this one is still on my TBR! I don’t think it will last long there though as it’s been calling my name all month. (Special thanks to Bibliolifestyle and William Morrow Publishers for a copy!)
If you’re still uncertain, a gift card to your favorite indie bookstore or libro.fm is always a good idea. Not only does it allow them to pick their next favorite (audio)book, but it also supports your local economy! Drop a comment or hit reply to let me know if you gift one of these to someone or have another book to recommend. And don’t forget to share — this would also make a great wishlist for you!