“A book is a gift you can open again and again” – Garrison Keillor
If you ask me, there are few gifts better than books. You can keep your posh jewellery, expensive perfume and bottles of bubbly; you can’t beat a beautiful book. This is something that was instilled in me at a young age and is probably the reason why my go-to gift idea is books. If you’re looking for some tips on what to buy the young reader in your life, here are some recommendations based on what Jenson and I have been reading this year.
So many fantastic books have been released this year, designed to inspire and empower young readers, particularly girls. We’re, arguably, in a golden age of feminism, with children’s books focusing on the lives of filmmaker Alice Guy and Senator Elizabeth Warren.
There is also a fab encyclopaedia of sorts, detailing incredible women throughout history. HerStory is a fantastic book, with stunning illustrations.
Older readers should check out the likes of Ms Marvel and Star Wars: Women of the Galaxy for even more bad-ass women.
Of course, you can’t beat a classic, or a beautiful new edition. Treat the mini bookworm in your life to one (or more!) of the Matilda 30 editions.
Everyone loves a Roald Dahl book. This year, the focus of Roald Dahl Day was James and the Giant Peach, and you can still get your hands on a limited edition with fuzzy stickers, plus have hours of fun with James’ Giant Bug Book. You might even be able to get an adventure kit to go with it.
When I’m shopping for super tiny readers, the illustrations are a very important factor. Fortunately there are so many stunning titles available, including this new release from Abrams + Chronicle. A Hug is for Holding Me* (released on 11 December) is so dreamy, and another example of a title which warrants a peek under the jacket. A book about love and affection, it also encourages young readers to connect with nature.
Shopping for teenage readers? I’ve read two particularly awesome young adult titles this year: The Hate U Give and Are We All Lemmings & Snowflakes? The first will open its reader’s eyes to the brutal reality of modern racism and the second has the power to break down barriers and reassure a reader struggling with their own mental health.
“Books are often far more than just books” – Roxane Gay
What books would you recommend for young readers?
*I was sent a copy of this book for review purposes and all thoughts are my own
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