Best Books to Give As Gifts

Last Updated on April 26, 2024 by Tracey McGrath

Books are one of my favorite gifts to receive and give because they can provide insight, clarity, and motivation as well as inspiration. You can learn a new skill, create better habits, get motivated to start on your goals, feel empathy, laugh, cry and feel accomplished once you’re done reading. Win-win!

A book is truly the gift that keeps on giving the whole year through!

Here are a few of my favorite books and ones that I think would be lovely to give as gifts.

For a girlfriend who needs motivation:  You are a Badass by Jen Sincero

This is one of the best personal development books out there.  It’s sweet but also practical and helpful in terms of telling you like it is.  I love Jen’s voice and her message.  

For your bestie going through a tough time:  All Along You Were Blooming by Morgan Harper Nichols

Oh, how I love Morgan Harper Nichols!  Her art and words are so authentic and genuine.  I just want to give her a big hug because I feel like that is what she does with her words.  Anyone going through a difficult time will find inspiration and sweet comfort in this beautiful book.  

For your mom or mother-in-law:  The Magnolia Story by Chip and Joanna Gaines

I just love Chip and Joanna Gaines.  I truly believe they might be two of the sweetest people out there.  This story tells about how they met and developed their wildly successful business.  It’s honest and hilarious.  I got the audio version on Audible and their voices really add to the story.  

For your husband:  The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson

This one is for the guy or gal who needs a little kick in the pants to just get started!  The author provides his story of success and how his small consistent steps and daily disciplines helped him to achieve his goals.  It’s what got me into “reading” my books on audio while driving and it’s been over two years and I’ve read almost 14 books in my car!

For the tween (8-12):  Pax by Sara Pennypacker

A charming but heartfelt little story for your older kids about a boy and a pet fox.  It’s relays the story of their separation and then the boy’s drive and determination to find the fox.  I loved how the book gave both the boy’s and the fox’s perspectives. It may help your tween to start thinking about how sometimes we have to do the right thing for someone we love even though it may be painful for us. 

For the little ones:  The World Needs Who You Were Made To Be by Joanna Gaines

The children in the book design, build and ride in their hot air balloons.  It shows how all of us are unique and have our own gifts to give the world, which is what makes it so beautiful.  I loved the sentiment and how it shows that our differences are what make us special. And the illustrations are just so cute!  

For the aspiring chef:  5 Ingredients by Jamie Oliver

I love Jamie Oliver (and his cute British accent)!  And I love any recipe that only includes 5 ingredients, which automatically means it’s going to be uncomplicated.  He creates lovely and delicious recipes with quality ingredients in this beautiful cookbook.  There are a few ingredients he uses that maybe you don’t normally stock in your pantry but overall the recipes are easy to follow and create wonderful meals. 

For the aspiring artist:  Daily Painting by Carol Marine

Such a great book for anyone who wants inspiration to paint and steps on how to actually get started!  This book helped me to paint more often which also increased my confidence.  The author provides practical setup tips and supplies as well as basic instructions on how to paint.  Plus, she also includes advice on how to set up a website and sell your paintings! 

I hope these recommendations help you to find the perfect gift for your loved one!

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links, and I will earn a commission if you purchase through these links. Please note that I’ve linked to these products purely because I recommend them and they are from companies I trust. There is no additional cost to you.