By Jenna Smith, The Book Taster

Giving books as gifts really has to be the most joyous gifting experience there is. From selecting the right book for the right person, to handing it over and watching the response, to then hearing down the line whether they enjoyed the book or not; books really do make for the best gifts. As the quote states – “Books are the gift you open time and time again!”. There is no other gift I can think of which allows a person to experience it’s joy over an extended period of time (depending on how quickly you read of course!) and one you can keep dipping into. Book are such a timeless and thoughtful gift as they have no sell by date, the options are endless, you can re-read it and they really do show that you have thought about the person you are gifting too.  

A Gift That Keeps On Giving

As a huge book lover myself, nothing excites me more than being handed a book shaped parcel as a gift. Holding it in my hands, the anticipation of what title it might be, which author has written it, have I heard of it before, will I enjoy it; runs through my head before I have even torn away the wrapping. You might look around my house and see the piles of books, the bookcases straining under the weight of its contents- assuming that, no, I don’t need any more books to add to the home library I am curating. However, I am a strong believer that buying (or being brought) book) is one hobby and reading them are an entirely different hobby in its own right. So always buy that book for the bookworm in your life! 

The Thought Behind a Thoughtful Gift

The book gift box with If I Were You by Cesca Major, white chocolate buttons, Brown Mag crisps and a Nio cocktail

When gifting a book to someone, I know that I am showing them a personal touch, that I have thought about them as an individual and have considered something that would appeal to their tastes and interests. Each year there are on average 200,000 new book published within the UK. That is a lot of books, but also so many books to choose from. This is where I believe gifting a book for someone comes into its own. With such a vast array of titles to choose from – by gifting a book you have shown that you have really taken into consideration the person which is what gifting is all about. Books cover so many topics that you would struggle to find the right fit for someone. Hence why I gift books over clothes any day!  

Confessions of a Book Lover

Confession time: I own 17 different copies of I Capture The Castle by Dodie Smith, a novel which was first published in 1948. I adore this book as a classic piece of writing and also how timeless it is. Whilst some of its content has aged – at heart it is a story about adolescence and family; themes which we can all relate too in 2025. Books allow us to explore, learn, ask questions and dip into a world away from our own – regardless of our age or life stages. This is what I love about reading. You could be 6 years old or 60 years old, read a brand new book or pick up a classic – the enjoyment is the same! 

A Tale As Old As Time

As well as my vast collection of ‘I Capture The Castle’ – I have a shelf of books which I have been gifted or handed down to me, books which have captured my heart, helped me through a tricky patch or a title that reached me at the right time. There is something magical about finding a book that touches you in ways you were not expecting, a book which helps you when you need it most or a book which you relate too and find comfort in. My Grandma was an avid reader, she loved talking about books with me, passing on her favourites or recommending books to me. Some of her books and ones that she gifted me sit pride of place on my bookshelves. I smile at them often as they evoke wonderful memories. I have cried whilst reading them knowing she has thumbed through the pages too, but most of all having something that connects us still – really is very special. 

Mother's Day Book Subscription Gift Box with 'This Motherless Land'

The Perfect Escape

The joy of gifting books and reading is wide sweeping and vast. I read to escape, I read for pleasure, I read for my mental health, I read for connection … the list goes on. One thing I have ensured is that I read before bedtime. I stop doom scrolling. I switch off all noise and distractions. I make time for me. In a world where we have to be permanently ‘on’ – burying my head deep into a book and immersing myself into it for a short really is the ultimate pleasure. What better gift is there- than a gift which gives someone the chance to unwind, relax and put themselves first. 

So there you go. If in doubt, buy that book as gift – you won’t regret it!  

Thoughtful Gifting

Whether it’s a birthday, a moment of support, or someone going through a tough time, sending a book is more than a gift.

Books have that rare ability to offer escape, companionship, even laughter – all from the comfort of a cosy chair. And paired with tea, snacks, and other thoughtful treats? That’s proper TLC in a box.

Whether it’s a birthday, a moment of support, or someone going through a tough time, sending a book is more than a gift.

If you’d like to send someone a fabulous Don’t Buy Her Flowers book gift, Create your own gift or shop The Book Gift Box

Follow Jenna AKA The Book Taster on Instagram and if you love books AND meeting up with like-minded people, follow The Book & Pudding Club.