Books

Little Literary Gifts To Show The Book-Lovers In Your Life How Much You Care

by Melissa Ragsdale

Book nerds can seem hard to shop for. It seems like the perfect gift for a book-lover would be, well, a book. (And quite often it is.) But when the person you're shopping for has an extensive book collection, how are you supposed to know what they've already read?

Here's a pro tip: book-lovers will adore anything even remotely related to books! Accessories, home goods, clothing, games — whatever. If it's got a literary bent, I am into it. And bookish gifts work perfectly for any occasion, from holidays to birthdays — or even "just because."

If you're thinking that a bookish gift is stuffy or boring, think again! Book accessories go far beyond bookmarks and page holders (though, I definitely love those, too). There are tons of exciting and cool items out there that celebrate books and reading. These days, you can infuse every part of life with the literary spirit. And trust me, any book nerd is determined to.

There are so many fun gifts you can give the bookworm in your life. So, if you're stressing over buying a present, you can relax. These bookish gifts are sure to make any book lover squeal with delight when they open them.

A literary subscription box

Give your bookworm a treat every single month. There are plenty of great literary subscription boxes out there that deliver books and bookish goodies, like Book-of-the Month club, OwlCrate, or MuseMonthly.

A personal library kit

Amazon

A personal library kit is a cute, fun, and practical accessory. You can stamp the insides of your books, keep track of who you've lent them out to, and even put in old-fashioned return date logs. My sister got me one for a gift last year, and I've used it far more than I expected.

Personal Library Kit, $11, Amazon

Literary candles

The Green Light Literary Candle, $18, HeartandHammer

Candles and books go hand-in-hand. Literary candles will spruce up any bookworm's home, and they're so much fun to collect.

A literary art print

"Doors" Print, $24, Obvious State

There are tons of beautiful and unique pieces of literary art. Check out Obvious State, or even just scroll through Etsy, to find one that appeals to your chosen bookworm.

Papercuts: A Party Game for the Rude and Well-Read

Papercuts, $25, Electric Literature

Inspired by Cards Against Humanity, this literary card game is the perfect party game for book nerds.

'Tequila Mockingbird' by Tim Federle

Tequila Mockingbird by Tim Federle, $12, Amazon

Speaking of parties, this book is filled with punny literary cocktails. Whip up a few of these cocktails and play Papercuts with friends for a perfect night-in.

Book pillows

Olde Book Pillow Classics, $12, ThinkGeek

These pillows are SO cute. Designed to look like classic books, they're perfect for cozying up on a rainy day with a good book.

A literary necklace

Literature is My Boyfriend Pendant Necklace, $12, Etsy

This cute necklace will make any serious book-lover smile.

Bookstore swag

Beanie: Black Knit with Pom, $15, Strand Bookstore

Does your bookworm have a favorite bookstore? Let them show off their bookstore pride with a shirt, hat, or other accessory. (Plus, you'll be supporting independent bookstores!).

Shakespearean Insult Bandages

Accoutrements Shakespearean Insult Bandages, $7, Amazon

Do you need some ice for that burn? How about a band-aid? These band-aids are a cute and fun addition to any book-lover's first aid kit.

Poetry magnets

Magnetic Poetry, $20, Amazon

This is a fun addition to any refrigerator. Mix and match words to your heart's delight.