Library Lin’s Top 10 List of Book Categories
…..That Make Great Last Minute Gifts
By Linda Maxie, Guest Contributor
Hi Everyone!
Happy Holiday Season to you! I'm back with another list of Lin's Top 10 recommendations. Since December is a giving season, I thought I'd give you different types of books you can buy for the folks on your list. And since I don't know them like you do, I only included one example of each type. This should give you inspiration to find an example for your loved one.
Topics of Interest
Everyone on your list is interested in something. You may have a person fascinated by science, politics, history, or art. Whatever it is, there are good books to be found on that topic. All you need to do get on the internet and type in the topic with "recommended books." You will probably be surprised at what you find. Here's one for bird lovers:
What it's Like to be a Bird by David Allen Sibley
Humorous Books
These books don't have to be on any outstanding lists to be appreciated. Just know the type of jokes your recipient might enjoy. Most Grandmas wouldn't want a copy of Truly Tasteless Jokes, but who knows, maybe yours would?
Exceptionally Bad Dad Jokes: So Frightfully Awful...Yet Wonderfully Spiffing by Spiffy McChappy
Books By (or about) People They Admire
Most people are a fan of someone: a football coach, a singer, or a humanitarian. Just start talking about people you admire, and you might be surprised to find out who the people in your life respect or fancy.
All In: An Autobiography by Billy Jean King
Cookbooks
Whether you are giving a book to a friend who is who is obsessed with craft cocktails or a recent divorcée who needs recipes for one (person, that is, not cocktails), there is a cookbook out there for almost everyone.
Modern Comfort Food by Ina Garten
Self-Help Books
While it's a good idea to steer clear of books that suggest your friends and relatives are mentally ill, most people, especially young people, would be happy to receive a book that would give them a leg up on their career or finances, or that would help them develop their philosophical outlook.
Think Again: The Power of Know What You Don't Know by Adam Grant
Hobby Books
People enjoy all sorts of activities from knitting, to mushrooming, to building miniatures.
365 Days of Drawing by Lise Herzog
Vintage Books
A few weeks back, I Tweeted out, "Would you be happy if someone gave you a vintage copy of a classic book?" I received more than 31,000 likes and over 6,000 comments on that question. So this one is likely to be a hit. It doesn't have to be a valuable first edition. Just an old copy of a classic with an intriguing cover (or dust jacket) would be enjoyed. While the one below may give you sticker shock, it's possible to find some vintage books for a steal.
Silent Spring by Rachel Carson
Inspirational Books
Who wouldn't like to feel inspired? We all need to lift our flagging spirits sometimes.
The Book of Joy by the Dalai Lama with Demond Tutu
Activity Books
Some people love puzzles, some like coloring books, and others want instructions on how to do something well. You can pick up books like this almost anywhere. They make great gifts for young people or for older people who may be looking for something to pass the time.
A Literary Tea Party by Alison Walsh
Books About Books
If you have a true bibliophile on your list, I can almost guarantee they would be thrilled to get a book about books. There are many of these on all kinds of books. If you have a nonfiction lover to buy for, might I suggest my own?
Library Lin's Curated Collection of Superlative Nonfiction by Linda Maxie
This list is by no means exhaustive. Do you have a type of book you would love to receive as a gift? Let me know!
In January, I'll be sending you a list of the Top 10 books I plan to read in the coming year. And I'd love to hear about what you plan to read, too. In fact, next year, I will send out your suggestions in a special post.
I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season, filled with peace, happiness, and the ones you love.