57 Gifts for Book Lovers (That Aren’t Books)
Updated: Nov. 21, 2023
These gorgeous gifts for book lovers are perfect for those whose literary obsessions know no bounds!
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Literary obsessives are renowned for bringing their passions straight from the page and into their everyday lives. However, believe it or not, the best book-lover gifts don’t always have to be physical books. Many book lovers appreciate nothing more than a well-thought-out bookish gift that appeals to their love of the written word.
We’ve rounded up gift ideas that are practical, funny, best-selling, highly reviewed or just all-around hits with book fans. You’ll find selections like gifts for her, gifts for him, gifts for Harry Potter fans and gifts for coffee lovers. Read on for the most clever, funny, punny and flat-out awesome gifts for the readers, writers and discerning book lovers in your life.
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For the librarian, teacher or student: Bookworm Library Card Socks
These socks, which feature a print that resembles library cards of yesteryear, are ideal for librarians, bibliophiles, style mavens and anyone nostalgic for library lending days of old. Socks like these make practical gifts for book lovers who are always cold. These would be excellent for white elephant gifting this season.
For the fashion-forward bookworm: “Little Women” Infinity Scarf
“Let us be elegant or die,” writes Louisa May Alcott as sisters Meg and Jo March get ready for a dance in the classic Little Women. Quotes from the novel adorn this comfortable scarf to be read, worn and adored by book lovers and style makers. This would also make the perfect sentimental graduation gift.
For night owls: GearLight Rechargeable LED Book Light
Late-night readers will love these handy and practical unique gifts for book lovers. This pack of two rechargeable LED book lights would also make the ideal gift for keen travelers and those who regularly hit the road on hikes or family camping trips. Simply clip the light to the book for a totally hands-free experience.
Perfect for even the most impossible people to shop for, use the white or daylight mode to aid focus when working and amber mode to reduce eye strain from blue light.
For those who need extra sleep: Quility Weighted Blanket for Adults
If you often find yourself struggling to sleep, then this weighted blanket could be a real game-changer. Made from 100% cotton, this adult-sized weighted blanket features durable, breathable material and a removable cover that’s machine washable for long-lasting use and easy cleaning.
With a choice of weights and sizes, use the handy guide provided in the listing to find the best fit for your measurements. Thanks to a stunning array of color choices, this would make one of the perfect gifts for book lovers. Curl up with your favorite Christmas books this cozy season and embrace the relaxation.
For writers: Papier Wildflower Reading Journal
This beautifully illustrated Papier reading journal is adorned with wildflower illustrations that wouldn’t be out of place in their very own Secret Garden. With space in the journal to review 34 books, they’ll find themselves inspired to jot down their innermost musings on their latest read. With four pages allocated per review, there’s enough room to talk about the nitty-gritty of their thoughts and opinions.
For e-book readers: Kindle Paperwhite
The Kindle Paperwhite is an eReader, that allows users to purchase, download and read books straight from the device. It comes in six versions, from a kid-friendly reader to the premium Kindle Oasis to the Paperwhite Signature Edition, which offers wireless charging. The Kindle Paperwhite offers either eight or 16 gigabytes (GB) of storage capacity in a slim, lightweight 6.8-inch display. Since ebooks require such a small amount of storage space, readers can download thousands of books without ever hitting the storage maximum.
Senior Shopping Editor Megan Mowery says, “The Kindle also features adjustable screen brightness and warmth, airplane mode, dark mode, parental controls and Wi-Fi connectivity. The glare-free screen is designed to look and read like real paper. And since it’s waterproof, you can read in the bath or pool without worry.” This is one of those gifts for book lovers that’s perfect for those who love to read on the go.
For literary rebels: Read Banned Books Shirt
This super cute T-shirt is perfect for embracing a more rebellious side. With an on-trend modern font and a unisex fit, this is a versatile gifting choice for friends and family. Pair this last-minute gift with denim mom-fit jeans and sneakers for a casual daytime look that’s certain to get the nod of approval from fellow literary fans.
For collectors: Rolife Book Nook Kit DIY 3D Wooden Puzzles Dollhouse Bookshelf Insert
This insert is one of the best gifts for book lovers who are also in the crafting community. Relax and enjoy piecing together this wooden 3D puzzle kit with your own hands. The finished look is a cheerful and eye-catching item with LED lights for added appeal, which is the perfect gift idea for hard-to-buy-for husbands and grandfathers.
For candle lovers: We’re All Mad Here Alice in Wonderland Scented Vegan Soy Candle
Get ready to go completely bonkers for this fantastic Alice in Wonderland-scented soy candle. This vegan-friendly, soy-based candle is 8oz in weight and has a delicious strawberry shortcake scent that’s perfect for burning during a day of self-care. The uplifting scent offers approximately 70 hours of burn time and presents in a sweet little floral-themed jar. Candles are the perfect gifts for book lovers this autumn.
For board game fanatics: Literary Charades
It’s charades, but not as you know it. This charming travel-friendly game has a literary-themed twist, making it the perfect addition to any book lovers’ family board games collection. It’s the perfect way to bring friends and family together during any event or celebration.
For audiobook lovers: Audible Premium Plus Gift Membership
The only thing better than gifting someone an excellent book is gifting them a way to read it on the go. Audible Premium Plus gift memberships offer all the perks of a subscription without the commitment. That means audiobooks to thousands of bestsellers, plus originals you can only get on Audible, sleep tracks, meditation programs and podcasts.
With a Premium Plus gift membership, your favorite book lover will also get an additional title every month from an extended list of bestsellers and new releases not available with a standard Audible subscription. Not sure how long your giftee will want to listen? Gift memberships range between one month and one year.
For the late-night reader: Just One More Chapter Pillow Cover
Gifts for book lovers should woo them with wit and comfort. How many times have you heard a bookworm say, “Just one more chapter?” Don’t forget to buy the pillow to go inside this perfect statement pillow cover. If you’re looking for can’t-put-down books—the kind that keeps you turning pages ’til late at night—try any of these best mysteries and thrillers.
For cat lovers: Out of Print Bookstore Cats Relaxed-Fit T-Shirt
Bookstores and cats go together like Lizzie Bennet and Mr. Darcy. This popular T-shirt explains just how sweet that is—with an adorable cat on an open book too. It’s comfy perfection and a nice gift for cat lovers and one of the cutest gifts for book lovers too.
For the hopeless romantic: Well Read Wuthering Heights Green Book Handbag Cross-Body Clutch
True romantics who love gifts for book lovers will get swept away by this ode to Catherine and Heathcliff from Emily Brontë’s classic novel. These whimsical cross-body bags come in several book cover choices, including “Wuthering Heights”, one of the best romance novels of all time.
For the bookish mystic: A Jane Austen Tarot Deck
Fans of Jane Austen’s wit and wisdom will love this quirky, beautifully illustrated card deck. You’ll find 53 lush cards with traditional tarot symbolism revamped using lore and love stories from Austen’s canon. When it comes to books by female authors, Austen is queen.
For kids and teens: So Many Books So Little Time Book Sleeve
This sweet pastel-colored book sleeve will help to protect your favorite read whilst also looking adorable. The perfectly proportioned sleeve measures 11 X 8.5 inches and features a handy zipper. The sleeves are easy to clean, and the lightweight properties make them ideal gifts for book lovers who often nonchalantly throw their latest reads into their bag with the intent to devour them during long journeys.
For the home decor fan: Wooden Book Lamp
This wooden book lamp would make a stunning addition to any reading nook. The magical and eye-catching book light unfolds to reveal a relaxing, cozy glow that would be perfect for those who enjoy a spot of late-night reading. Gift this to your sister or any member of your friends and family circle if you want to make a good impression this season.
For the luxurious shopper: Kate Spade New York Canvas Tote Bag
Kate Spade New York is a highly renowned brand that can always be relied on to deliver something fun, stylish and quirky. This is the ideal grab-and-go tote bag for when you need to pop to the store or make a mad dash to the local bookshop for the next great read. This illustrated tote features a stack of rare books and classics such as “Through the Looking Glass” and “Pride and Prejudice” in eye-catching colors.
For the teacher in your life: Tilisma Walnut Book Page Holder
Readers love the convenience of this handmade bookmark. Place it between pages, slip your thumb in the hole and easily read with one hand. Teachers and lecturers in particular love this simple, artisanal accessory, which makes it easy to hold a book open in front of a classroom and leaves one hand on the book and one free. It’d make a nifty stocking stuffer idea for men, women or children.
For the dog-eared enthusiast: Jiazhenep Handmade Metal Feather Bookmark
When it’s time to mark their place, plenty of readers make do with the nearest piece of paper. But bookmark collectors will love this gorgeous feather bookmark, handmade with vintage style. It’s lightweight, with delicate charms that’ll dangle outside the book when tucked between the pages. Or keep it poised in your favorite classic hardcover for literary ambiance. Hard to buy for Grandmas and Grandpas will also love these.
For the bedtime reader: Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light
This around-the-neck reading light is a colossal fan favorite, with more than 82,000 five-star ratings. It boasts can’t-live-without-convenience, is comfy and adjustable and works for any hard-to-see endeavor that calls for hands-free action. While it works perfectly as one of the most useful gifts for book lovers, it’s also perfect as a gift for campers.
For the cozy friend: Read More Books Jumper
When you feel as though you need to make a statement and profess your love of books, this is the perfect outfit choice. This cozy Eastman knit is perfect for the winter months and features a bold “Read More Books” slogan on the front. The perfect fit and gift for her or for anyone who wants to (quite literally) wear their love of books on their sleeve in any weather. Available in sizes 8-22.
For the creative person: “The Literary Witches Oracle”
This 70-card deck works for divination or to prompt creative journeys and breakthroughs. The cards feature literary legends like Octavia Butler, Virginia Woolf, Toni Morrison and Joy Harjo, as well as symbols ready for interpretation. Even better: Gift it alongside an astrology book or as a Secret Santa present.
For the Potterhead: Silver Buffalo Harry Potter Coaster Set
Gryffindors and Slytherins alike will love these glass coasters, which feature an embossed design of the house crests made famous in the “Harry Potter” series. They’re the ideal gift for book lovers and fans of the series or anyone who’s part of the fandom, thanks to the films.
For the comedian: Lavley So Many Books, So Little Time Socks
Here’s one for pals who like to put their feet up. After all, that’s the only way people in the room can read the witty quip on the bottom of these hilarious socks. The crew-length knit will keep them warm as they curl up with a good book. Functional and funny, these socks are just like our picks for the funniest books of all time.
For the book club member: Austen Avid Readers Club Slogan Tee
This on-trend “Avid Readers Club” T-shirt is the perfect fashion piece for everyday wear. Literary lovers will appreciate the nod to all things bookish, with the piece still having mass market appeal. Pair this with skinny jeans, leggings or a favorite pencil skirt for a casual and playful daytime look. It’s a great match for any current fashion staples, whether the day is slow-paced or a total page-turner.
For the feminist: RBG Quote T-Shirt
Late, great Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg once said, “Never underestimate the power of a girl with a book.” This ultra-popular design is offered in a variety of sizes; sold in styles for men, women or kids, and comes in 10 colors.
For the desk jockey: Hemingway Pencil Cup
Typewriters are making a comeback, and this little version won’t cramp small spaces. The wonderful vintage typewriter sculpture has an open-top design that’s perfect for storing pens and pencils. It’s an inspiring object for the desk of any book lover, writer, student or office operative.
For bathtime readers: Bamfan Bamboo Bath Tray
A bubble bath and a good book—what more could a book lover want? This sleek bamboo tray adjusts to extend across tubs of various sizes, and it has a place to rest a book for the ultimate relaxation session. There’s even a secure slot for a wine glass. Gift it to someone who really needs a relaxing break this season such as your nurse friends and all those who are currently working fast-paced jobs.
For Fantasy book fans: Top Collection Mini Reading Dragon Figurine
This wee bookworm—er, dragon figurine—measures only about three inches long, perfectly delightful for a fairy garden or whimsical bookshelf display. Get it as a thank-you gift for the sister who gobbled up Naomi Novik’s Temeraire Series or the friend who identified with “Game of Thrones'” Mother of Dragons.
For cheesy romance readers: Build Your Own Christmas Movie Romance
Know someone who loved to read “Choose Your Own Adventure” books as a child? Does that same person now love Hallmark Christmas movies in a guilty-pleasure sort of way? Then you’ve found a spot-on (and supremely hilarious) book gift. Will your friend be the big-city businesswoman who learns a lesson after moving to a small town? Will she find true love with a secret prince? Only she can choose her favorite cliché.
For the organizer: The Book Lover’s Journal
This reading journal makes the perfect gift for voracious readers who speed through the titles on their nightstands. Bibliophiles can keep track of the books they’ve read and write down their thoughts and impressions, creating their own volume about a well-read life in the process. There are also pages for books to read in the future, a “pages turned” log and a checklist of the world’s greatest books. Pick up one of these as a gift for your sister-in-law.
For the hostess with the mostess: Paddywax Jane Austen Candle
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a Jane Austen lover in possession of romantic sensibilities must be in want of a literary candle. This sweetly packaged soy wax candle, a stylish hostess gift, comes with a bookplate-style label featuring the brilliant author’s signature. It’s scented with English garden favorites like tuberose and gardenia, with a few hints of a marriage proposal from Mr. Darcy.
For the artsy type: “Bibliophile: An Illustrated Miscellany”
This vibrantly illustrated book makes the ideal gift for book lovers, wordsmiths, artists and pretty much everyone else. Author Jane Mount features book trivia, facts and fancies as well as gorgeous illustrations of books.
For the best friend: Little Cutees Studio Reading Squad Shirt
Book lovers will adore this comfy T-shirt, which makes a statement that’s both book-related and stylish. This unisex shirt comes in a bunch of colors for bookish types, including basic black, heather gray, pink, ice blue and more. This is the ideal gift idea for any book club member.
For the film studies connoisseur: Wes Anderson Coffee Table Book
The perfect gift idea for literary lovers, filmmakers and avid readers alike, this beautifully presented hardback book is designed using the classic Wes Anderson color schemes and features rich and captivating imagery from his many movies. Get the lowdown on classics like The Grand Budapest Hotel, Rushmore, The Royal Tenenbaums, Moonrise Kingdom and The French Dispatch, along with many more. Add it to a bookshelf or coffee table book collection.
For tea drinkers: Literary Emporium Book Lover Gift Set
The Literary Emporium gift set is a book lover’s dream. Packed full of literary-themed goodies, it ticks all of the boxes when it comes to impressive bookish gifts. This book gift box includes an assortment of high-quality items along with an exclusive Literary Emporium mug and your choice from a selection of delicious teas.
For cozy winter reads: Bedsure Soft Fuzzy Faux Fur Throw Blanket
This large (50×60 inches) gray fluffy throw would be the perfect addition to a cozy winter night of easy reading or perhaps a good murder mystery novel if the nerves allow it. The soft gray tone of this throw is a beautiful neutral, but if you are looking for something to complement a specific color scheme in their home, you’ll be pleased to know that there are a variety of alternative color options.
For the reading-obsessed aunt: Happypop Novelty Socks
If you are looking for a fun and inexpensive gift that’s sure to give mom a giggle, then look no further than these novelty socks. Available in a wide range of bold and eye-catching colors, you’ll be able to drop the perfect hint to family members as you put your feet up and relax. These sassy socks boast a soft, cushioned sole for ultimate comfort.
For Gothic fans: Gothic Literature Enamel Pin Set
This enamel pin set contains monochrome designs adorned with quotes from classic novels such as Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”, Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven”, Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”, Emily Bronte’s “Wuthering Heights”, Oscar Wilde’s “The Picture of Dorian Gray”, Charlotte Bronte’s “Jane Eyre” and Robert Louis Stevenson’s “The Strange Case of Dr. Jeykll and Mr. Hyde”. Each pin is displayed on a silver foiled backing card, making it a wonderful gift idea for teachers or friends.
For authors and copywriters: Writing Motivation Poster
Gift this typographic print to your writer friends as the perfect home decor item to spruce up their office walls and help keep them motivated on tough work days. Choose from a selection of sizes to suit any wall space and customize the colors for that truly personalized touch. It’s a thoughtful gift for writers to brighten someone’s day.
For the busy parent: Ember Mug 2: Metallic Collection
If you love to read but often find that your beverage of choice goes cold because you’ve become engrossed in the latest fictional world, an Ember Mug is the surefire solution. I absolutely adore my Ember Mug and always keep it handy for when I settle down with a good book or an engrossing TV show.
The Ember Mug 2 comes in an eye-catching rose gold colorway but is available in a variety of other colors depending on your gift recipient’s preferences. Pick one with a 10-ounce or 14-ounce capacity. Simply set your drink temperature of choice and the Ember Mug will maintain this for up to 1.5 hours. It’s also an essential gift for new moms.
For the makeup artist: Harry Potter Makeup Brushes
Harry Potter fans will love this adorable makeup brush set that features brushes in the shape of wands from the hit books and movie franchise. Whether you choose to gift your friends the full set of makeup brushes or just the one that best suits their Harry Potter House is completely up to you. These sweet little brushes are perfect for applying eyeshadow or blush and come in a handy presentation pouch.
For the student: Transparent Highlighter Tape
Highlighting books for your studies can often make a mess. If you don’t want to write on your textbooks or ruin your favorite novels, why not try using an aesthetically pleasing transparent highlighter tape? These neon rolls of 0.23-inch wide tape easily snap off at the desired length without the need for scissors, which is perfect for those who love to study on the move and work as wonderful stocking stuffers.
For the book club host: Smirly Bamboo Cheese Board Set
This gorgeous cheese board set is perfect for book club party hosts. Just add wine, and they’ll be ready to welcome the local literati. You could even opt to commission someone to personalize gifts for you if the seller doesn’t offer this.
For word nerds: Punderdome Card Game
Punderdome, a game that originated in a Brooklyn bar, will appeal to logophiles and lovers of classic board games alike. It’s a great idea for people who need any excuse to flaunt their punny bone. To play, come up with the best pun before the clock runs out. It’s pun and games for the whole family.
For crafters: The Antiquarian Sticker Book: Bibliophilia
Fall in love with this literary-themed miscellany, which makes it one of the best gifts for readers. It’s a gorgeous collection of more than 1,000 stickers featuring Victorian flora, nature, book quotes and unique letter designs. Your historical romance-loving mom will love this gift.
For the world traveler: This Is My Bookstore Postcards
These fascinating postcards showcase gorgeous bookshops around the globe. They come in a box of 100 and are a unique gift for world-traveling book lovers. Another idea: Give them one of the best fantasy books to really send them on a voyage.
For the sentimental type: Folded Book Art
These folded book art pieces are wonderful gifts for book lovers. Not only are they sentimental gift ideas, but they also make beautiful home decor displays for your bookshelves. Add a personalized six-digit date to the book. This could be a wedding date, anniversary date, birth date or the birthday of a child.
For hands-free reading: Remote Control Page Turner for Kindle
Snuggle under the covers on cold days and keep your hands warm whilst you read with this remote control for Kindles, or take some hands-free notes. If you know someone who suffers from circulation problems, then this would also be a very welcome gadget gift. The remote control page-turner features USB charging capabilities and comes in a sleek and compact design.
For stationery lovers: 12 Pack Magnetic Bookmark
If you know someone who is pretty protective over their books, they may not want to risk damaging their favorite titles with a standard bookmark. These pastel-colored magnetic bookmarks come in a pack of twelve (which is super-handy if you are always misplacing stuff) and clip onto paper pages without causing rips or tears. They are some of Amazon Prime’s best gifts and would make for a practical treat for yourself.
For e-reader fans: Tablet/Kindle Stand Holder
If you loved the Kindle remote that we featured above, you’ll most definitely want to pair it with a fantastic tablet or Kindle stand. Simply clip it to the side of the bed or a bedside table, and you’ll be free to cozy up under the covers and read in ultimate relaxation mode. Get it for someone who loves to read at bedtime or anyone who likes to watch their favorite shows before snuggling down to sleep.
For people who love surprises: Blind Date with a Book
If no one is giving you the romantic gifts that you crave, then why not treat yourself to a blind date with a book? The concept of this is simple and fun. Choose your favorite genre and then select whether you would like to receive new or pre-loved books. The seller will then send you a mystery book delivery along with a free chocolate bar and a tea bag.
For mood-setters: Diptyque Ambre Scented Candle
When it comes to amazing gifts for book lovers, Diptyque is a luxurious and stylish brand with a selection of products for every occasion. The Ambre candle has an excellent scent throw and a rich, cozy smell. Diptyque scented candles look effortlessly chic when placed around the home and used as lighting on a cozy evening when you’re curled up with a good book.
For classic novel collectors: Divalis 100 Books Scratch Off Poster
We’ve all seen those scratch-off travel posters that allow you to keep track of which cities you have visited, but how about a book lovers edition? This fun wall accessory features classics such as “Fahrenheit 451”, “The Great Gatsby”, “Lord of the Flies” and more. With a list of 100 titles to work through and scratch off, it will keep any book lover occupied for months as they work their way through them.
For sappy book readers: Crafted Classical Retro Wooden Antique Book Tissue Box
This has to be the most bookish tissue holder ever. Featuring a stack of old-fashioned books sitting at an angle, this would look fantastic on a bookshelf or bedside table. The approximate dimensions in inches are 10.3 by 6.3 by 4. Simply take the Kleenex out of the box and pop it straight into the new literary-themed tissue holder. If you know someone who enjoys a good sappy romance novel, then this is the gift for them.
For game nights: Marrying Mr. Darcy Board Game
If you are looking for a fun, tongue-in-cheek gift for someone special then this “Marrying Mr. Darcy” board game needs to be on your radar. When you need a break from the scary horror-themed board games that are so on trend right now, this game is ideal. The aim of the game is to take the identity of a female character from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. You then earn points to attract your potential suitors. It sounds incredibly silly but very, very good fun.
