Giftable Books
What are giftable books? For our purposes, they are books to give as gifts to friends, family, teachers, and anyone on your shopping list. Jackie and I spend the whole year thinking of our favorite books and who the perfect audience is for each of the books we love.
I often give books for presents to kids paired with a little toy or game and Jackie does the same. But I wanted to highlight the books to give as gifts to adults in this list. If you are looking for Beyond the Bookends picks for the best books of the year, you can have a look at our post.
It’s my hope that you will join me in normalizing giving books as presents for the holidays, birthdays, or just because. Read on to help figure out what books to gift to everyone on your list!
*Giftable books post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Books to Give as Gifts to Your Family
For Your Mom
Plot
Rocky and her family have gone to a rental in Cape Cod for 20 years. This year, the vacation feels different. Rocky’s kids are almost fully grown, but not quite, her parents are getting older faster than she would like and she is experiencing all the joys of menopause.
As they spend the week together, Rocky sees things differently than she has in the past. She has secrets that she no longer wants to keep.
Trigger Warnings
Abortion
Why Jackie loves it
This 236-page book is an absolute must-read. I related to Rocky’s mood swings and inner monologue so much I was screaming with laughter. The way she simultaneously loved her husband and felt the urge to slap him was all too familiar (sorry honey). I also loved the relationship that she had with her kids. This book is perfect for any woman who is in the sandwich generation and trying to find her place as a mother and daughter.
Why Kirsten loves it
I savored this book and it ended too soon for me. Newman’s portrayal of being a mother, a wife, and a daughter were spot on. I laughed out loud and even cried a little too with this 5-star book.
Find this book in: Books with Food in the Title / Best Family Drama Books / New June 2024 Book Releases / Best New Fiction Books of 2024 / Giftable Books / The Best Books of 2024
For Your Mother-in-Law
How to Age Disgracefully
Author: Clare Pooley
Year: 2024
Genre: Fiction
More info: Best Selling Author
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Like Clare Pooley’s previous books, this one has a multi-generational cast of characters that make it utterly delightful and laugh-out-loud funny.
Lydia has a new job running the Senior Citizen’s Social Club and the members are unlike anything she expected. Art is an out-of-work actor, William is a former paparazzi, and Daphne is a 70-year-old who lives alone and talks to her plants. And that is only half of the lively crew. When the City council tries to sell the community center building, the Social Club members enlist the help of the daycare, a teenager, and a dog to save the building.
Why Jackie loves it
I read this book in a day. I laughed, I cried, and I applauded. This book made me feel so good. The multi-generational cast of characters makes this book appealing to anyone who loves a great second-chance fiction book. It is about finding yourself and your inner strength (with a side of revenge). And one of our favorite characters from a previous book makes a brief appearance!
Find this book in: Feel Good Books / Ultimate Beach Reads 2024 / Best New 2024 Fiction / Giftable Books / The Best Books of 2024
For Your Dad
The Last One at the Wedding
Author: Jason Rekulak
Year: 2024
Genre: Thriller
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Are you looking for an epic mystery-thriller that will keep you invested until the last page? Jason Rekulak’s newest novel DELIVERED.
Frank has not spoken to his daughter, Maggie, in three years and is shocked when she calls to invite him to her wedding. When he arrives at the private estate where the wedding will take place with his sister and her foster child, Frank discovers Maggie is marrying billionaire heir, Aiden Gardner.
The family is not friendly, Maggie has no time for him, and Frank gets suspicious when he realizes that Aiden is suspected of having something to do with a missing woman. When a fellow wedding guest winds up dead, Frank goes on the hunt to figure out what secrets are being kept from him in a bid to save his daughter.
Why Kirsten loves it
Frank is an everyman way over his head with the antics of the 1%. While he strives to help his daughter in a bid to repair their relationship, he is met with a myriad of scenarios he can’t wrap his head around as he is thwarted at every turn. His outsider looking in perspective was an exceptional narrative tool and as he uncovered each secret, I was every bit as shocked as he was. At the 70% mark my mind literally looked like this – 🤯. I DEVOURED it and you will too.
Find this book in: Wedding Novels / Best New Thrillers of 2024/ Best Psychological Thriller Books / Giftable Books / Best Books of 2024
For Your Father-in-Law
We Solve Murders
Author: Richard Osman
Year: 2024
Genre: Mystery
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author of Thursday Murder Club series
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Steve Wheeler is retired and prefers spending time close to home where he finds comfort in his routines. His daughter-in-law, Amy, is working private security on a remote Island for a famous author, Rosie D’Antonio. When bodies start turning up, it is clear that Amy is being framed for murder. She doesn’t know who or why but she has to turn to the only person she trusts to help keep her safe and outwit a serial killer.
Now, Steve, Amy, and Rosie are on a worldwide hunt to catch a killer before the killer catches them.
Trigger Warnings
murder, drugs
Why Jackie loves it
Rosie D’Antonio is an outrageous, over-the-top author who had me laughing-out-loud. I loved seeing all of the characters thrown out of their comfort zone in this new book which is the first in a series. The plot is fast-moving and sharp. I had no idea who dun it, so to speak, and loved every minute #gifted.
Find this book in: Best New Mystery Books of 2024 / Giftable Books / The Best Books of 2024
For Your Sister
Plot
This family saga is told in multiple timelines about multiple mothers. It opens with Lila’s funeral in the present and her daughter, Grace’s reaction to it. But from there it flashes back to Lila’s childhood focusing on how her own mother was committed to an asylum in 196o by her father.
Against all odds, Lila rose to the top of her field prioritizing her job over her children, ignoring that Grace desperately missed her while she was off at White House correspondent dinners. She resented her so much, that she wrote a bestselling book based on Lila. Now Grace’s guilt over her actions in the years and the strain of her relationship has her looking back and pondering if you can ever know yourself without knowing the women who shaped you.
Trigger Warnings
Domestic Abuse
Why Kirsten loves it
From the nonlinear narrative to the deep dive into the intergenerational cycle of abuse and abandonment, this story had a lot of elements that just clicked for me. I was swept into the hunt for Zelda, weaving my fantasies about what had become of her.
I felt like Grace and Lila were deeply flawed in a wonderfully complex way that had me cringing and cheering them on in equal measure. I also adored Ruth, Clara, and Joe and the growth of each of the characters throughout this novel. I’ll be thinking about it for years to come. #gifted by PRH Audio
Find this book in: Family Saga Books / Summary of Like Mother, Like Mother / Best New Fiction Books of 2024 / Giftable Books / The Best Books of 2024 / Best Books for Book Club
For Your Brother
Believe: The Untold Story Behind Ted Lasso
Author: Jeremy Egner
Year: 2024
Genre: Nonfiction
More info: From The New York Times Jeremy Enger
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This book starts with the silly NBC Premier League commercial starring Ted Lasso and brings us through casting, set, locations, and writing of the hit show. It does all of this without ever losing the heart and soul of the magical show that proved you can be a good guy.
Why Jackie loves it
If you love the show Ted Lasso as much as I do, this book is a must-read. I am still lamenting the end of the show, the last episode of which had me bawling hysterically. This book gave me everything I was hoping for- it brought me back to the magic of the show and the perfect timing of the premier. #gifted
Find this book in: Giftable Books / New Release Books You Must Read / Best New Nonfiction Books of 2024
For Your Grandmother
Sylvia’s Second Act
Author: Hillary Yablon
Year: 2024
Genre: Fiction
More info:
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 16+
Plot
If you are looking for an absolutely hysterical novel, this is for you! After walking into the Florida retirement home she hates and seeing her husband in a compromising position with their neighbor, Sylvia decides it’s time to start her life over in New York City.
Armed only with the money she has from pawning her watch, she gets herself a geriatric roommate and relaunches her career as a wedding planner. The scenarios she gets herself into are filled with heart, humor, and wisdom to create a novel unlike any other.
Trigger Warnings
Reference to drug-related death, Financial instability, Cheating
Why Kirsten loves it
I’ve never met a character quite like Sylvia. She’s vivacious and fun in a way that most 66-year-olds are not depicted in literature. I was rooting for her success during the entire book. I’m hoping that scene in the epilogue means a sequel is in the works.
Why Jackie loves it
I could not stop laughing at the antics in this book. But, it was also a book with strong character development and was deeply emotional in some parts. All together, this book is the perfect mix of emotions and plot.
Find this book in: Best Fiction Books of 2024 / Books like A Man Called Ove / Giftable Books / The Best Books of 2024
Books as Gifts For Book Lovers in Your Life
For Your Book Club
Margo’s Got Money Troubles: A Novel
Author: Rufi Thorpe
Year: 2024
Genre: Literary Fiction
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Margo Millet has always had to take care of herself and enrolled in community college as her way out. Her mother was a Hooter waitress who had an affair with her ex-pro wrestler father. Despite having a distant relationship with him, he was not there as an everyday figure in her life. When Margo has an affair with her married professor and becomes pregnant with his child, she decides to keep the baby even with everyone telling her that she is going to ruin her life.
Now, she has a baby, no job, and needs to pay her rent. When her father, Jinx, shows up on her doorstep and needs someone to help him stay sober, she agrees to let him stay in exchange for babysitting and rent. Margo also decides to start an OnlyFans and use her father’s expertise in show business to help
Trigger Warnings
Drug Use, Addiction
Why Jackie loves it
I have never read anything like this before. I laughed out loud at times while reading the book. Initially, I was not sure that I was going to like it. Thorpe has a way of taking upsetting and serious topics and themes and weaving them seamlessly into the story. I love how Margo grows from the beginning of the story to the end. I love her relationship development with her father and the fact that they both come to respect each other despite and because of their flaws.
Adaptation Information
Apple TV+ announced an upcoming TV series adaptation of this book starring Elle Fanning, Nicole Kidman, and Michelle Pfeiffer.
Find this book in: Best New Fiction Books of 2024 / Books Set in College / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / Books Becoming TV Series / Giftable Books / The Best Books of 2024
For Your Child’s Teacher
The Faculty Lounge
Author: Jennifer Mathieu
Year: 2024
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
More info: National Bestseller
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This delightful story follows a set of teachers across an academic year – each narrating a different story as the year progresses. It opens with a first-year teacher finding a substitute teacher dead of old age in the faculty lounge.
From meddling PTA moms to personal issues impacting faculty performance, from district overstepping to parents challenging curriculum, this story truly covers all the highs and lows of being a teacher in the world today.
Why Kirsten loves it
Both hilarious and poignant, this story reminds me of Abbott Elementary in the best way. I felt deeply for the teachers and their struggles while laughing along with their missteps and flaws. #Gifted by Dutton
Find this book in: Best Contemporary Fiction 2024 / Books Set in High School / Giftable Books
For the Audiobook Lover
The Examiner
Author: Janice Hallett
Year: 2024
Genre: Mystery
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author
Age Range: 16+
Plot
In the quintessential Hallett style, this story is told in emails and texts. Gela Nathaniel must find six students for her Multicultural Art program or risk losing her funding. But the students give her trouble from the start. Some don’t come regularly, some are very stuck in their ways, and supplies are going missing.
When the examiner for the course starts looking through emails and texts of the students and Gela, he realizes someone is in danger. The question is whether they are dead already.
Why Jackie loves it
I listened to this book #gifted and loved every minute. I immediately got a sense of all the characters and their quirks. I quickly loved and hated them simultaneously. I was never sure exactly what was going on, in the best possible way.
Find this book in: August 2024 book releases / Best New Mystery Books of 2024 / Janice Hallett Books in Order / Giftable Books
Books for Presents by Personality
For the Music Lover
From Here to the Great Unknown
Author: Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough
Genre: Nonfiction
Year: 2024
More info: October 2024 Oprah Book Club Pick
Age: 16+
Plot
Lisa Marie Presley’s memoir, lovingly finished by her daughter Riley upon her death, tells her story for the first time. Born to one of the most famous musicians in the world, she explores growing up at Graceland, her marriage to Michael Jackson, and what it was like living in the Hollywood scene.
Why Kirsten loves it
I was utterly enthralled by the audiobook version of this book. Julia Roberts narrates Lisa Marie’s words, Riley narrates her own voice, and there are recordings Lisa Marie made scattered throughout as well.
Since Lisa Marie passed before finishing this project, Riley’s words are woven throughout — finishing stories, giving context, and bringing her perspective to her mother’s version of events. Riley showed her mother so much grace and love while acknowledging how unique and difficult Lisa Marie’s life was.
Find this book in: Celebrity Memoirs / Giftable Books
For a Mom or Anyone Who Wants to be Organized
The Plan: Manage Your Time Like a Lazy Genius
Author: Kendra J. Adachi
Year: 2024
Genre: Nonfiction
Age Range: 14+
Plot
If you are like me you know that managing all the expectations and demands of motherhood can be daunting. Using the acronym PLAN, this book will teach you to prepare, live, adjust, and notice while considering things like hormones, personality, and your stage of life.
Why Kirsten loves it
I adore Adachi’s Lazy Genius Podcast and her book by the same name, so I just knew I had to pick up her book on time management. The straightforward advice was easy to digest because it was written with women in mind. It takes into account that our seasons of life change more than men do because of family obligations, hormones, life stages, and the patriarchy.
We need to be more nimble than our male counterparts – unfairly or not – but Adachi’s PLAN helps us to do just that by leaning into what makes us different and having us push back against the traditional frameworks of planning because they were created for men, by men. (she mentions a stat early on of 93% of time management books being written by males.)
In the few days since I’ve read it, I’ve seen myself reframing the workload ahead of me, and adjusting to balance what is most important at this time in my life. Pair this with her first book and you will set yourself up for a happier, more successful life tailored to YOU. #gifted the audio by Penguin Random House, but I also purchased a physical copy.
Find this book in: Books about Organizing / October 2024 New Books/ Best New Nonfiction Books of 2024 / Giftable Books
For The Person With a Short Attention Span
Table for Two
Author: Amor Towles
Year: 2024
Genre: Historical Fiction Short Stories
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 14+
Plot
With Table for Two, famed author Amor Towles re-released his novella, Eve in Hollywood, along with a brand new collection of short stories set in New York City. Each story is an ode to a different part of life in New York, telling the stories of a Russian immigrant, a rare bookseller, an opera bootlegger, and a stranded traveler, among others.
And for Rules of Civility fans, Eve is a character from that novel who was last seen boarding a train to Hollywood. Her adventures out west were an absolute delight!
Why Kirsten loves it
Though I am not typically into short stories, Amor Towles is a favorite of mine so I had to read this collection. Each short story could have been a novel of it’s own, but the novella about Eve was the shining star for me.
Find this book in: Old Hollywood Books / Summer Read 2024 / Books Set in NYC / New Historical Fiction Books / Giftable Books
For the Fourth Wing Obsessed
When the Moon Hatched
Author: Sarah A. Parker
Year: 2024
Genre: Fantasy
More info: Moonfall Series, 1
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Raeve is an assassin for the rebellion. She shows no mercy and leaves no witnesses until one night when she lets a mysterious stranger live. When The Guild of Nobles’ prisons Raeve, she expects death but instead finds herself carried away by Kaan Vaegor’s dragon.
Kaan is a King mourning the loss of the love of his life when he finds Raeve in the prison cell. She cannot help but feel the connection between them but cannot understand why.
This is the first book in the Moonfall Series and I cannot wait to see what happens.
Trigger Warnings
Sexual Content, Graphic Violence
Why Jackie loves it
I was immediately sucked into this world of Fae and dragons. The storytelling is fantastic, and the characters are unique and surprising. I loved how strong Raeve is and yet, her character is also vulnerable. I cannot wait for the next book. This is definitely one of my favorite books of 2024.
Find this book in: Books Like A Court of Thorns and Roses / The Best Books Like Fourth Wing/ Dragon Books for Adults / Best New Fantasy Books and Sci-Fi Books of 2024 / Giftable Books / Best Books of 2024
For the Swiftie or Fashionista
Taylor Swift Styled
Author: Sarah Chapelle
Year: 2024
Genre: Nonfiction
More info: Instant New York Times & USA Today Bestseller
Age Range: 11+
Plot
In this incredible fashion tome, @taylorswiftstyled takes readers through Taylor Swift’s many fashion reinventions, album by album, one era at a time.
Within the pages you’ll see how Taylor commits to a theme, seamlessly reinventing her style with every new album. Chapelle connects the fashion dots and explains the narrative Taylor was conveying in her outfit choices by pointing out patterns and common elements around each era’s satirical choices.
Why Kirsten loves it
Like her famed IG account, she gives her own commentary and takes on the outfits as well and the way she does it is magnificent. To quote the book “In the world of fashion, where the urge to be cutting, to even be catty, felt like the norm, I wanted to carve out a space that was critically kind in thought and in manner.”
While Chapelle applied this sentiment to Taylor’s fashion, take out “of fashion” and you have an ethos we strive for in this community… one we wish to see more of in the world today. If you loved Elizabeth Holmes’s HRH Royal Fashion, you will adore this one. It’s an ideal gift for the Swiftie in your life!
Find this book in: Books About Fashion / Giftable Books / Best New Nonfiction Books of 2024 / Best Books for 11-year-olds
For the Person You Don’t Know What to Give
Plot
Jo Piazza has written the PERFECT summer novel, striking a delicious balance between being relaxing enough to enjoy on the beach but thought-provoking enough to discuss with your book club.
I was swept into the story of Sara and her quest to learn about her unexpected inheritance and the possible murder of her great-grandmother, Serafina. To solve the mystery and claim her inheritance, she must travel to the Italian countryside – giving her a break from her recently closed restaurant and her failed marriage.
The dual-timeline narrative focuses on Sara’s quest and Serafina’s life as a woman coming into her own in the 1900s. The stakes are high for both women as they balance staying true to their dreams in the face of society’s oppression of women, especially when it turns dangerous.
Why Kirsten loves it
I could go on and on about this one. The vivid imagery that Jo paints with her writing had me picturing the town, tasting the food, and smelling the Sicilian soil. I SWEAR, at one point I touched my chin to see if the oil from the meal she was writing about was dripping down my face.
It’s a multi-genre, multigenerational masterpiece of a beach read. #gifted by Dutton Books
Why Jackie loves it
I could not put this book down. The characters and the plot compelled me to keep reading, the descriptions of the people and the places made me feel like I was actually there. The fact that some of this is based in a true story is just a cherry on top of this sundae!
Find this book in: Beach Read 2024 / Books Set in Italy / Family Drama / Best Historical Fiction of 2024 / Best Mystery Books 2024 / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / Giftable Books / The Best Books of 2024
For the Baker
Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame
Author: Olivia Ford
Year: 2024
Genre: Fiction
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 14+
Plot
At 72, Jenny has decided to secretly enter a reality tv show, Britain Bakes (AKA The Great British Baking Show.) To her utter shock, she’s selected as a contestant! As she diligently works to prepare her bakes each week, she struggles to keep the secret of being on the show to her friends and neighbors. But that’s not all she’s struggling with.
Each chapter is named after a recipe and sprinkled throughout the modern-day narrative are flashbacks to her youth – including a secret she’s kept from her husband for more than 50 years.
Why Kirsten loves it
This story was delightfully charming. I loved the behind-scenes look at a baking show, I drooled over the many delectable bakes, and I was utterly obsessed with Jenny’s journey on the show and in her personal life. This story felt like a warm hug. It has heartwarming lessons wrapped up in funny and poignant moments.
Find this book in: Giftable Books / Best Fiction Books of 2024 / The Best Books of 2024
Books to Gift based on Genre
For the Literary Fiction Lover
All the Colors of the Dark
Author: Chris Whitaker
Year: 2024
Genre: Literary Fiction/ Mystery
More info: July 2024 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 16+
Plot
The book begins in 1975 when Patch, a local boy, saves the daughter of a wealthy family from abduction. He is taken by the serial killer and presumed dead by everyone except his best friend, Saint. She spends almost a year following the clues to find him.
Patch spends the rest of his life searching for Grace, the girl who kept him company while he was a captive unsure if she is real or a figment of his imagination to keep him sane while alone in the dark. And Saint dedicated her life to finding people. Nobody’s life will ever be the same.
This book is much more than a mystery. It is the story of a life and all those that are connected to that life. What happens to those who survive and can we ever move on from tragedy?
Trigger Warnings
Abduction, Murder, Abuse
Why Jackie loves it
This book is a long one and there were some parts in the middle that I felt were a little too long. However, I absolutely loved this book. Whitaker weaves a story like nobody else. The characters are complex, flawed, and relatable on many levels. The writing is beautiful and the story comes together seamlessly.
Find this book in: Giftable Books / The July 2024 Celebrity Book Club Spoilers / Best New Fiction Books of 2024 / The Best Books of 2024
For the Romantic
The Love of My Afterlife
Author: Kirsty Greenwood
Year: 2024
Genre: Fantasy Romance
More info: July 2024 GMA Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Delphie has just died and is in her pj’s in the afterlife when she meets the man of her dreams. Her hilarious afterlife therapist, Merit, is obsessed with all things romance so she gives her the chance to return to her life with the caveat that she has ten days to find this mysterious man and get him to kiss her.
That would be easy except for the fact that she does not know his last name and cannot seem to find him anywhere. Even worse, her therapist seems to be hindering her progress rather than helping. Delphie reluctantly asks her grumpy downstairs neighbor to help her. Soon, Delphie is making friends, loving life, and regretting shutting everyone out her whole life.
Why Jackie loves it
Delphie reminds me of a more loveable Eleanor Oliphant. Thanks to the love-obsessed afterlife therapist, this book is one part love triangle mixed with a little bit of forced proximity, and a whole lot of laugh-out-loud rom-com!
Find this book in: Books Like Eleanor Oliphant / Romantic Comedy Books / Best Romance Books of 2024 / Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Giftable Books / The Best Books of 2024
For the Sweet Fantasy Lover
Plot
No book says “Jackie” like a book about tea and witches. A family curse is trying to separate Anne, Beatrix, and Violet Quigley, witch triplets run the Crescent Moon Tearoom. When the witch counsel comes for a visit, the sisters are given an ultimatum. They must help three witches find their life’s purpose before it’s too late and only then can they stay together and keep their beloved tearoom.
The sisters each have ideas on how to help the other witches but they also feel themselves being pulled apart. Is the pull away from each other a curse or their destiny?
Why Jackie loves it
This magical book gave me the same feeling as The Night Circus. Sivinski’s writing is so descriptive, that I felt the words coming off the page. The house is one of my favorite characters with a personality that made me laugh and despite the fact that the sisters were triplets, their personalities were completely distinct.
Find this book in: Books About Tea / The Best Witch Books /Best New Fantasy Books and Sci-Fi Books of 2024 / The Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Giftable Books
For the Historical Fiction Lover
The Secret War of Julia Child
Author: Diana R. Chambers
Year: 2024
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: An instant international bestseller and a USA Today bestseller!
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Everyone knows Julia Child as the famous chef, but not many people know that she worked for the Office of Strategic Services. While Julia declared that she was not a spy, she certainly played an intriguing role in WWII. This is a biographical fiction that is based on true events and facts. But not everything in the book is true, however much I wish it was.
We follow Julia from Washington where she worked as a full clerk to South Asia where she meets Paul Child.
I loved reading about a Julia Child who didn’t know how to cook, had not experienced different cuisine, and had not yet become the icon we all know and love. I also loved reading about how she met Paul and reading the beginning of their love story.
There is a little bit of something for everyone to love in this rich novel.
Why Jackie loves it
This book was so well-written and I could hear the voice of Julia Child in the writing. I loved the story of Paul and Julia and the only thing that would have made it better was if it was all true! This is biographical fiction at its best
Find this book in:New Release Books You Must Read / Most Anticipated October 2024 Book Releases / Giftable Books
For the Mystery Lover
The God of the Woods
Author: Liz Moore
Year: 2024
Genre: Literary Historical Mystery
More info: New York Times Bestseller
New York Times Notable Book of 2024
People Magazine’s #1 Book of the Year
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Early one morning in August 1975, a camp counselor discovers that Barbara Van Laar, the daughter of the camper owners, has gone missing. Fourteen years earlier, her brother also went missing, and he was never found.
As the story flashes between the investigation into Barbara’s disappearance and the events leading up to Bear’s, detectives, family members, campers, and staff members’ lives are unfolded in a way that makes the mystery one of many threads woven into a masterful tale.
Liz Moore captured my attention from the very beginning and kept me engaged throughout as each secret and discovery unfolded into further mysteries.
Trigger Warnings
Child Death, Domestic Abuse
Why Kirsten loves it
I’ve not read many literary mysteries, but I can say that I like this subgenre of literary fiction. The mystery of what happened to Barbara and Bear was a fascinating central point, but I was so invested in each character’s story that I sometimes forgot what crime was being solved. I can see this not being for everyone though — there are lots of characters and sub-plots buried within. It’s no cozy mystery but that’s exactly why I think it’s one of my favorites of the year.
Why Jackie loves it
I will admit that it took me a little longer than usual to get into this book. As Kirsten mentioned, there are a lot of characters and subplots so it took longer to get into the heart of the story. You need to persist with the slower beginning of the book. Once you are 75 pages in, you won’t be able to put it down. The plot development is so well done as the stories from the past and present come together.
Find this book in: Giftable Books / Books about Camp / The Best Books of 2024
Giving Festive Books as Christmas Gifts
The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year
Author: Ally Carter
Year: 2024
Genre: Mystery Romance
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 16+
Plot
After losing her assets to her cheating ex-husband, mystery author Maggie Chase agrees to head to the home of her biggest fan for the Christmas holidays. Unfortunately for her, Ethan Wyatt, another author from her publishing house, is also along for the trip.
It turns out, they have traveled to the home of Eleanor Ashley, a prolific mystery writer (clearly inspired by Agatha Christie) who has a sprawling mansion in the middle of the countryside. During a snowstorm, she mysteriously disappears. Now Maggie and Ethan must work together to try to find her. With murder attempts around every corner and a growing attraction between our leads, this is one fun genre-bending story.
Why Kirsten loves it
Once I started this story, I couldn’t put it down! I was completely swept into the mystery, I was enchanted by the crackling chemistry between our two main characters, and the setting and snowstorm just left me craving a snowy night in. I was utterly charmed by this one and you will be too!
Find this book in: Best Christmas Books of All Time / Christmas Mystery Books / New Christmas Books 2024 / Best Cozy Mystery Books / Giftable Books / The Best Books of 2024 / Romance Books About Books
The Holiday Honeymoon Switch
Author: Julia McKay
Year: 2024
Genre: Genre
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
You read it here first. The newest trend in holiday books this year is trading places/houses! Holly and Ivy are best friends who are so in sync that they look alike. When Holly’s fiancĂ© breaks up with her the night before their wedding is supposed to take place, she is stuck with a nonrefundable honeymoon.
She convinces Ivy to go on the Hawaiian honeymoon so it does not go to waste. Ivy can take her art retreat on beautiful beaches and Holly can escape to a secluded rented cabin in the Hudson Valley where Ivy was supposed to go. Now, Holly finds out the Airbnb owner is her high school rival and Ivy meets a hotel bartender who comes to her rescue when she finds that Holly’s ex-fiance has already checked into the honeymoon suite with a different woman.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved the relationship between Holly and Ivy as a true love that only best friends can give each other. I also loved that both Holly and Ivy were able to learn about themselves and what they each needed to make themselves happy while be true to who they are.
Find this book in: New Christmas Books 2024 / Christmas Romances / Most Anticipated October 2024 Books / Giftable Books
Kiss Me at Christmas
Author: Jenny Bayliss
Year: 2024
Genre: Fiction
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This marvelous Christmas story tells the tale of a newly renovated community theatre and the members trying to perform A Christmas Carol before the theatre is sold. It all started because 5 student were caught skipping school in said theatre by their guidance counselor – who takes the heat and offers their community service as payment so the landlord doesn’t press charges.
Harriet, the guidance counselor, was not expecting their ramshackle group to grow, and while she hoped the theatre could be an access to the community – she did not anticipate it becoming THE community hub. As she works to pull the production off, she is not expecting to partner with the landlord’s attorney – who happens to be a man she had a one-night stand with the night before.
Why Kirsten loves it
A lot is going on in this story in the best possible way. Some students bring talents and gifts to life as they earn confidence working on the production. Other community members find their place in the group and help mentor the children. There is romance, a fantastic production, and so much Christmas cheer. I also got choked up at the acknowledgment of Hanukkah and the mini celebration they have for one of the theatre members. Representation means so much.
Find this book in: Best Holiday Books / Christmas Book Club Books / Best Christmas Books Of All Time / New Christmas Books 2024 / Giftable Books
One Big Happy Family
Author: Susan Mallery
Year: 2024
Genre: Holiday Fiction
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Julie Parker is excited to spend the holiday with her new younger boyfriend and skip a big family Christmas. But when her grown children decide they want to spend Christmas together at the family cabin, she knows she will have to introduce them to the man she has been hiding. Soon the guest list starts growing and so goes the drama. From exes to mother-in-laws and even some unexpected kids, the house gets fuller with each passing day and secrets can’t stay hidden with so many people lurking around.
Why Kirsten loves it
Here’s the thing about miscommunication book tropes, I usually hate them! But I was so refreshed by how the conversations in this book were all so adult. Differences were worked out, if someone did something that mistakenly hurt another it was talked out with grace, and secrets weren’t kept for malicious or stupid reasons!
In addition, the holiday antics of the whole crew put me in the Christmas spirit and I loved each new guest that arrived and was folded in. My only complaint is that I wish I could have actually been part of this big blended family.
Find this book in: New Christmas Books 2024 / Giftable Books
The Christmas Countdown
Author: Holly Cassidy
Year: 2024
Genre: Romance
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Callie’s childhood sweetheart dumped her and the last thing she wants is to return home for the holidays where he will be next door – with his new girlfriend. Callie’s sister, Anita, makes her a holiday advent calendar with fun activities to get her back in the Christmas spirit. When she meets a charming baker who agrees to do the activities with her, sparks fly.
Why Kirsten loves it
I loved the Advent calendar tasks within this story – it was such a fun premise! Callie and Marco’s slow-burn love story gave me the same feeling as drinking a warm cup of peppermint cocoa. You won’t want to miss this Christmas romance.
Find this book in: New Christmas Books 2024 / Christmas Romance Books / Most Anticipated October 2024 Books / Giftable Books
Giftable Books for Teens
A Queen’s Game
Author: Katherine McGee
Year: 2024
Genre: Young Adult Historical Romance
Spice Rating:đź’‹đź’‹
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This is a YA historical romance that is based on the true events of 19th-century Europe. Three princesses: Alix of Hesse, Helen D’Orleans, and May of Teck will find themselves looking for love in the ballrooms of the Victorian era. Each woman is looking for a husband and it may not be the man their parents (or the Queen) want them to marry!
Why Kirsten loves it
American Royals is one of my favorite series so I knew I needed to read McGee’s first historical fiction story and boy was it a doozy! I felt for each of these ladies and their various love triangles… or hexagons? Honestly, their romances and potential matches overlapped so much that I’m not sure what shape they would make in the end!
I’ve long been a fan of historical fiction, but McGee made this story feel like the Gossip Girl version of real events. It got juicy and fun and damn would it make an excellent show! It’s Bridgerton for teens and I can’t recommend it more highly! The sequel is gonna be just as great!
Why Jackie loves it
I loved reading about three princesses in a royal love triangle that seemed more like a reality television show than based on real people. The story, the romance, and the love tangles were utterly unputdownable. I completely agree with Kirsten’s description of Bridgerton for teens.
Find this book in: Royal Reads / Giftable Books / Best New Children’s Books of 2024
The Grandest Game
Author: Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Year: 2024
Genre: Young Adult Mystery
More info: December 2024 Good Morning America YA Book Club Pick
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Avery and the Hawthorne brothers are back with an annual competition worth millions. It is the second annual Grandest Game in which seven people will receive golden tickets. Some of the competitors were chosen. by the Hawthorne brothers or Avery and the rest had to find their ticket. Every person there has a reason to win the game and they will all do whatever it takes.
The competition starts with the competitors participating in the most complex escape room. Who will make it out before dawn to go on to the next stage of the game?
Why Jackie loves it
I listened to the book and could not believe it was done. There are two reasons, one is that the story is far from over but the second is that I was so invested in the story. I cannot believe I have to wait until the next book comes out.
Find this book in: Giftable Books / Best New Children’s Books of 2024 / Books About Puzzles
Zodiac Rising
Author: Katie Zhao
Year: 2024
Genre: YA Fantasy
More info: Descendants of the Zodiac Book 1
Spice Rating:đź’‹
Age Range: 14+
Plot
This is a YA dark academia fantasy book whose main characters are descendants of the Chinese zodiac. When the zodiac statues were vandalized years ago, the Descendants were cursed and forced to hide their true natures.
The Descendants attend a private boarding school in Manhattan where the vampires, werewolves and shapeshifters attend at night and the human students attend at night. When the head of Dragon House is murdered, his sister Evangeline must fulfill the prophecy, restore the zodiac statues, and reverse the curse to restore the balance.
Evangeline brings with her Nicholas (a shapeshifter), Tristan (the werewolf), and a mortal named Alice who is more than meets the eye.
Trigger Warnings
Blood
Why Jackie loves it
I’ve seen mixed reviews about this book, but I personally loved it. I thought the characters were unique, the plot was fast-paced, and the Chinese mythology is a fun base for this story to build upon. Be warned that the story does not end here! This is the first in a series and I cannot wait to read the next book.
Find this book in: Dark Academia Fantasy Books / Giftable Books /Mythology Books / Best New Children’s Books of 2024
Giftable Books for Tweens
Plot
Alex is a twelve-year-old boy who did something very, very bad. When the judge sentences him to community service at a retirement home, he expects the worst. With Maya-Jade – the only other person his age who works there – hovering over his shoulder at all times, he fears that his secret will be revealed.
Alex eventually meets Josey who is a 107-year-old man who lived through the holocaust and hasn’t talked in many years. Josey entrusts his story to Alex, one of sadness, love, and death soon they form a close bond. But, secrets can’t be kept forever, and to do good, Alex has to confront what he has done.
Trigger Warnings
War, Antisemitism, Genocide
Why Jackie loves it
I’m not exaggerating when I say this is one of the best books I have ever read. It’s amazingly well-written, and one of the few books I have read to have made me cry.
Find this book in: Best Books for 11-year-olds / Books about the Holocaust / Giftable Books / Best New Children’s Books of 2024
Impossible Creatures
Author: Katherine Rundell
Illustrator: Ashley Mackenzie
Year: 2024
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Age: 10+
More info: Impossible Creatures #1, International Bestseller, New York Times Bestseller
Plot
Bestselling author, Katherine Rundell launched a new fantasy series for the magical creature obsessed! After rescuing a baby griffin, Christopher learns about magical islands where magical creatures have lived in secret for thousands of years. Soon, he’s on a mission to help Mal figure out why the magic is fading from the islands.
Along the way, he meets numerous mythical creatures, discovers the magic of the archipelago, and forms a deep attachment to Mal and two adults who help them on their journey to restore the glimourie.
Trigger Warnings
Animal death, Child death
Why Kirsten loves it
Rundell wove a story that earned its place with the greats like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. Christopher and Mal’s friendship moved me to tears and the lessons they learned about life, death, and what it all means felt as filled with wisdom as anything Dumbledore ever said.
I listened to this one and can attest that the narrator is marvelous. My boys looked forward to our car rides listening to this epic adventure and we can’t wait for the rest of the trilogy!
Find this book in: Books with Magical Creatures / Dragon Books for Tweens / Giftable Books / Best Children’s Books of 2024 / Best Books for 11-year-olds
The Bletchley Riddle
Author: Ruth Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin
Year: 2024
Genre: Middle Grade Historical Fiction
Age: 10+
Plot
In 1940, Jakob and his sister Lizzie have always loved riddles and puzzles. Now, after becoming orphaned during the Nazi invasion of Poland, they live at Bletchley Park for the start of WWII. There, Jakob is working to crack the Nazi code while Lizzie is trying to find their missing mother, who she believes didn’t die in Poland.
As the siblings struggle to adjust to their new surroundings and the many secrets they need to keep, they also need to learn to trust one another and fix their broken bond. Along the way, an interesting cast of characters help them solve the puzzle of their missing mom.
Why Kirsten loves it
I could see this turning into a series of stories because the story has a somewhat open-ended conclusion. I really enjoyed this story with precocious Lizzie being one of my favorite characters of Sepetys’ to date. I’d love to see more of this dynamic duo and their quirky group of friends at Bletchley!
Find this book in: WWII Books for Kids / Giftable Books / Best New Children’s Books of 2024 / Books for 12-year-olds
Looking for the perfect gift for a book lover?
Expert Advice for Buying Books as Gifts
- Think about who you are buying for, my list gives so many great options for books to gift to different personality types
- Go to your local bookstore! Not only have their staff read the books, but they can give your great recommendations- with a gift receipt!
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Books as Gifts
What are the best books to give as gifts?
There are so many fantastic giftable books in 2024. The book we think EVERYONE on your list will love is The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza. It is a historical fiction, mystery, and family drama all in one extremely well-written book. It will be a winner for everyone on your list
Should I give Books for Presents?
You should absolutely get books as gifts for anyone on your list. Books do not go out of style, can be read over and over, and look fantastic on your shelf.
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Epilogue:
Did you find any giftable books on this list? Are we missing your favorite book to gift?
The 56 Best Gifts For Book Lovers to Adore
Are you looking for the perfect gift for the bookworms in your life? Look no further!
