Books for the Holidays
The joy of unwrapping a book that was chosen just for you
The holiday season is filled with joy. But let’s be honest — it can also come with a fair bit of pressure, especially when it comes to gift-giving. That’s why so many folks love giving books. There’s something truly meaningful about unwrapping a book that was chosen just for you.
If you feel the same, keep reading. There’s plenty of holiday magic ahead. And here’s a gifting tip: tuck a personal note inside the cover — a simple touch that turns a thoughtful gift into an unforgettable one.
Kids First
Let’s start with the children, because let’s face it, the holidays are all about them. “The Christmas Sweater” by Jan Brett is a beautifully illustrated book about an adventurous boy and an adorable pug in a Christmas sweater who saves the day after an adventure goes off the rails. Kirkus Reviews called it “A merry choice for Christmastime.”
Who’s looking forward to some snow this season? Kids will love “A Snow Day for Amos McGee” by Philip and Erin Stead. When a predicted snowfall fails to materialize, zookeeper Amos McGee heads for home. But when a surprise storm blankets the town, what does his lovable squad of animals do? Visit the friendly zookeeper and play in the snow, of course!
And don’t sleep on “The Pirate Moms” by Jodi Lancet-Grant. This joyful, funny adventure about Billy and his two eccentric mothers proves that being different is what makes family so special. And the lively illustrations bring pirate chaos into ordinary life.
How about a lovely holiday book that will stick with children all year long? Kids will like “The Gift of Words” by Peter H. Reynolds. It’s an inspirational holiday story celebrating the power of words. This sweet tale offers a vision of generosity, love, hope and peace that they can reread any time of year.
Need more ideas for the youngsters in your life? Scroll to the bottom of this page for a list of new books for kids. You’re welcome.
Next the Cooks
Now to the adults in your life. If you’ve got a cook on your list, you can’t go wrong with a new cookbook. After all, you win because you get to eat well, too! “Something from Nothing” by Alison Roman features more than 100 deceptively simple, casually stylish, impossibly delicious recipes that make the most of your pantry. Everything from starters to main courses and sides. And you probably have all the ingredients on your shelves already!
The bestselling author of “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat” is back with another great collection of painstakingly tested, soul-nourishing recipes that bring joy and a sense of communion. If you want to know how Samrin Nosrat feeds her guests, check out “Good Things.” This book features a treasure trove of Nosrat’s favorite recipes that she cooks for herself and her friends.
Then Everyone Else
Everyone has someone on their list who just likes a good yarn, right? “The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny” by Kiran Desai is an immersive novel of love, family and finding a place in a swiftly globalizing world. It’s the sweeping tale of two young people navigating the many forces that shape their lives: country, class, race, history and the complicated bonds that link one generation to the next.
Remember falling in love with “The Cider House Rules”? Well, jump forward 40 years and check out “Queen Esther.” John Irving returns us to the same orphanage in Maine, where Dr. Wilbur Larch takes in Esther — a Viennese-born Jew whose life is shaped by antisemitism. Hers is a story not only of survival, but a profound exploration of identity, belonging and how history plays a huge part in our personal lives. I hope I get this one as a holiday gift.
Got a history buff or two on your list? We’ve got you covered. “The American Revolution: An Intimate History” by Geoffrey C. Ward and Ken Burns is a beautifully illustrated, human-centered history of how America was born. It’s based on the six-part PBS series that shares its name. Booklist raved about this one, saying, “This gripping, in-the-moment, thought-provoking, visually exciting history profoundly deepens our understanding of our nation’s origins and how the past is shaping our volatile present.”
Another good choice is “The Wayfinder” by Adam Johnson. This is a historical epic about a girl from a remote Tongan island who becomes her people’s queen. Publishers Weekly called it “remarkable.” That’s high praise indeed.
How about a memoir to round out the list? One of my favorite writers is back with “Joyride.” Susan Orlean has given us both “The Orchid Thief” and “The Library Book.” In “Joyride” she shares how she found her creative calling and purpose. And as usual, she does it with wonder, curiosity and a magical sense of delight. Don’t believe me? Just ask David Sedaris, who said, “For anyone who’s asked — and haven’t we all — ‘How does she write like that?’ This wise and exuberant book is the answer. It’s funny, as well. Just masterful.”
Remember, these are just a few suggestions. Your local, independent bookseller will have plenty more. Visit them and happy gifting!
More Books for Kids
Here are more choices for gift books for the younger folks on your list, hot off the presses!
- “The Big Cheese Presents: Have Yourself a Cheesy Little Christmas” by Jory John
- “Pocket Bear” by Katherine Applegate
- “Spy School Blackout” by Stuart Gibbs
- “Lost Evangeline” by Kate DiCamillo
- “Knight Owl’s Little Christmas” by Christopher Denise
- “A Dance with Santa Claus” by Sandra Boynton
- “The Digger and The Christmas Tree” by Joseph Kuefler
“Dasher and the Polar Bear” by - “Billie Jean Peet, Athlete” by
- “If We Were Dogs” by Sophie Blackall
- “Dog Man: Big Jim Believes” by
- “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Partypooper” by Jeff Kinney
- “The Court of the Dead” by Rick Riordan and
- “The Experiment” by Rebecca Stead
Shelley Laurence is a bookseller at Main Point Books, an independent bookstore with a handpicked selection for every member of the family. Check out their events, book groups and children’s activities at MainPointBooks.com or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Order online for delivery or pickup. 484-580-6978; 116 N. Wayne Ave., Wayne.
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