(I know what you’re thinking. And you’re right. But that for later…)

If you’re like me, you struggle every year to think of good holiday gifts for friends and family. It was a big fail last year when I got my brother and his wife flameless candles. And every year, I get my Dad socks and underwear because he insists that’s all he wants… but is it really?

Per my terrible pun above, novels make a great gift for everyone, and winter is the best time to cozy up with a good work of fiction. There are many genres to choose from, but “escapist” books seem to be a win with most people, like science-fiction and fantasy, for example. Ahem. So, I thought it would be helpful to give people a few ideas. Goodreads also has great recommendation lists if you want to narrow down more.

Young kids:

The Land of Neverbelieve by Norman Messenger

Beautiful illustrations about a unique island filled with things you would never believe, such as the Spaghetti Tree, Book Mountain, and the luminous Eyeball Snails. Written as little notes from an explorer’s point of view. My son loves it!

The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt

An adorable story about crayons that have been overworked and frustrated by their owner. Great illustrations!

Teenagers: 

The Giver by Lois Lowry

I was at a bookstore and asked for a sci-fi dystopia book rec. I was told this book, though for young adults, was a must read for anyone who loves the genre. I read it and immediately fell in love. A beautiful story. They just made a movie out of it too. You could even buy the full quartet as a gift.

Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

I haven’t read it, but it’s on a bunch of 2015 “best” lists and one review says “These books are the greatest things since Harry Potter AND sliced bread.”

Adults:

The Martian by Andy Weir.

Weir began writing this in pieces on a website when he caught the attention of people at the Jet Propulsion Lab. The scientists started giving him advice to make the science in the book seem more real. The end product is an amazing read, and so realistic. And the movie is almost just as good!

H is for Hawk by Helen Macdonald

I haven’t read it, but I’ve heard wonderful things. My Dad read it recently and loved it. Seems like it would appeal to a lot of people. It’s next on my list!

And finally… what I hear is a thrilling book of sci-fi/fantasy brilliance… (see, you knew this was coming)…

SIRENS Book One: Rising Tide and Book Two: Lost World

***A special gift package!!***

The paperback books on Amazon are about $15 each, but for the holidays I am offering a special package of signed paperback copies with bookmarks. Both for $25 plus $5 shipping. And I can write a little note inside if you tell me what to say. Click HERE to purchase yours today!