Welcomed Gifts for Friends and Family Who Read

It is not always easy to choose a book as a gift for book lovers. There are many different genres and personal preferences vary widely. If you are fortunate, you will know what genre the person you are buying for prefers.  But you still may or may not know what they've already read from that genre. Even though it is difficult to buy gifts for readers, I can assure you that readers welcome book-related gifts. Kindles and gift cards are popular and perfect gift choices for people who love to read.

I am proof of that.

A Kindle is a Wonderful Gift Choice

My oldest son bought a Kindle for me, one Christmas, years ago.  I did not think I would like an e-reader as I was a book addict. I probably could have been classified as a book hoarder.  I loved the covers, and the pages, and the words in books.  I loved sorting books on my bookshelves. I had collections by author.  Therefore, I was a bit skeptical when I opened that box that held that Kindle.

That Kindle has been amazing.  I read it every night before bed.  Because it is so easy to read, and carry along everywhere I go, I am reading even more than I had before.

I have one of the early Kindles.  The one that is called the Kindle Keyboard.  I connect to WiFi to order my books.  I have one word game on it. Otherwise, it is my library of books. Please note, that some of the original Kindles and some of the lesser expensive Kindles are not lighted.

Kindle Paperwhite - photo by Amazon

It is easy to solve that dilemma. There are lighted cases available.  I have the lighted leather case for
my Kindle. It has lasted all of these years and has only just now started to loosen just a bit where the light pulls up out of the protective case. With this light, I can read it in bed at night, at the campsite, in the tent, and anywhere else that I need light or that I want light without disturbing others.

Lighted Leather Case for Kindle Keyboard - photo by Amazon

To learn more about Kindles, Susan Deppner  tells  us about her experiences on her Kindle buying guide.  I am grateful for the wealth of information and experience she shares. She calls herself a bit "Kindle crazy". I think I would have to agree, but that's not a bad thing at all.  If you have Kindle questions, I'd begin by looking at Susan's articles.

If you already know what you are looking for, you can visit the Kindle Store to begin shopping.

Everyone Loves Gift Cards

If you don't want to give a Kindle, or if the person you are buying for already owns a Kindle, an Amazon Card is always appreciated.  I love to receive amazon gift cards so that I can add to my enormous book collection. I have given and received Amazon Gift cards for years, and have never had a problem with these cards.

Amazon Gift Cards

Books Make Great Gifts

If you do want to choose a book as a gift, here are a few excellent recommendations:

Galway Bay by Mary Pat Kelly.  My review of a historical fiction based on true events related to the Great Potato Famine. This story follows a family, a community, and two nations during this difficult time.  An excellent choice for readers who like things historical, Ireland, or epic survival. Mary Pat Kelly both entertained and educated me with this tale.  I will always remember what our country's Irish immigrants may have gone through in order to survive.

Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline. Brenda Little tells us about another historical fiction that was based on true events in the US.  A train carried orphans from the east coast to the midwest and beyond from 1854 to 1929. The topic is tough, as is some of the language and a scene or two. This story remained on the NY Times bestseller list for over 90 weeks, have you read it?

Three Word Books Every Writer Needs - Barbara Radisavljevic reminds writers that tools such as the dictionary and thesaurus are their best friend. But have you ever  heard of a Descriptionary or Word Menu? If not, she'd be glad to introduce you.

The Digital Photography Book by Scott Kelby - Photographer Mary Beth Granger outlines her favorite photography how-to books, volumes 1 through 4. If you enjoy photography, these are likely to be of interest to you too.

Don't Forget the Young and Young Adult Readers on Your List

Warriors by Erin Hunter -  Wednesday Elf reviews this juvenile fantasy series that has her 14 year old grandson riveted. The series is about the adventures of the wild cat clans that live in the forests. Any age-appropriate book that encourages readers to read has our thumbs up.

How to Draw Spongebob Squarepants - Sylvestermouse Cynthia knows how much children like to draw.  Clearly, many children love Spongebob Squarepants. So a how-to-draw Spongebob and friends book is a great idea.


Young or old, I think books and reading-related items make some of the best and most memorable gifts.  A good story is always remembered and a thoughtful gift to a reader has lasting impact.

For many more book reviews, visit ReviewThisReviews.com