You are convinced of it! We won’t prove the opposite to you: the book is the ideal gift for Christmas! It’s true that first of all, it has the infinite power to suit everyone, regardless of age, tastes or interests. Whether you’re looking for a gift for a curious child, a teenager with a passion for fantasy adventures, or an adult who loves classic literature, there is a perfect book for everyone. And it is often said that a person who does not read is a person who has not yet had the chance to encounter the books that might suit them. Somehow, this person hasn’t quite found themselves yet…
Novels, essays, comics, cookbooks, biographies – the diversity of genres and themes makes it possible to find the perfect gift for every family member or friend. Giving a book at Christmas also means offering a unique and enriching experience. A good book can transport its reader into imaginary worlds, introduce them to new cultures, or even provide them with valuable knowledge. It’s a gift that lasts over time, that you can savor at your own pace and that leaves a lasting imprint. The book is also a timeless object that can be passed down from generation to generation, thus becoming a true family treasure.
Associate reading with a leisure activity
But, some curmudgeons will say that the book does not encourage physical exercise enough, if at all. However, with children and young people already spending a certain number of hours behind a screen, shouldn’t we find more exciting activities for them? Certainly, it is true…So, why not combine the offer of a book with that of more interactive leisure time: this will meet all needs and create a healthy mind in a healthy body! There are many online interfaces that offer a gift by choosing from a very diverse range of activities, each more exciting than the last.
However, the book as such and for its own sake remains a gift that shows that you have taken the time to think about the tastes and interests of the person to whom you are giving it. It’s a thoughtful and personalized gesture that shows your affection. Whether it is a captivating novel, a practical guide or a beautiful illustrated book, each work is an invitation to escape, reflection and discovery. During these holiday seasons, there’s nothing like a good book to relax, get inspired and share moments of complicity around reading.
Choose a beautiful book
Giving a beautiful book highlighting the fine arts is a gift idea that is both elegant and enriching, which will delight lovers of art and culture. These works, often richly illustrated, allow you to discover or rediscover major works in the history of art, from classical paintings to modern sculptures, including contemporary installations. Each page is an invitation to wonder, offering faithful reproductions and in-depth analyzes that provide a better understanding of techniques, artistic movements and historical contexts.
As art books often involve a certain cost, Christmas is the perfect opportunity to offer a work from the famous Citadelles and Mazenod editions. If your budget is smaller, you can turn to Taschen editions. But choosing quality and beauty can also be by looking towards Diane de Selliers, Place des Victoires, or even Hazan and Phaidon. Every year the SNE (National Publishing Union) offers a selection of works that are worth the detour.
A beautiful book on fine arts is also a decorative object in its own right. Its careful cover and high-quality pages make it an aesthetic element that will fit perfectly on a coffee table or in a bookcase. It thus becomes a focal point for discussions and exchanges, allowing moments of discovery and artistic appreciation to be shared with friends and family. Plus, these books are often built to last, with sturdy bindings and quality materials, making this gift a lasting investment.
Offer the winners of major literary prizes
These works are generally recognized for their exceptional literary quality. If you have trouble making a choice: you can rely on the one made by professionals among the myriad of new publications. Literary prizes, such as the Prix Goncourt, the Pulitzer Prize or the Booker Prize, are awarded by juries made up of critics and experts from the literary world, thus guaranteeing a certain credibility and added value. By gifting an award-winning book, you can be sure that the recipient will receive a high-quality work, appreciated by the literary community. In any case, at least for a few years…
These works are also often widely discussed and recommended, which can arouse the interest and curiosity of the recipient. Let’s think of Houris by Kamel Daoud, or even Jacaranda by Gaël Faye. Gifting an award-winning book also allows you to participate in current cultural conversations and share enriching reading experiences. Furthermore, these books are often translated into several languages and available in many bookstores, thus facilitating their accessibility. You could, however, be criticized for choosing a title that has already acquired a certain fame for not having put enough of your personal touch and, perhaps, for not having taken enough into account the personality of the recipient of your gift…
Offer books with historical significance
For those who wish to explore the history of humanity in all its richness, Sapiens: A Brief History of Humanity by Yuval Noah Harari is a sure bet. This accessible and captivating story traces the evolution of human societies, from the Stone Age to the present day, while addressing the great transformations that have shaped our world. In the same spirit, The Silk Roads by Peter Frankopan offers a fascinating rereading of world history through the prism of cultural and economic exchanges, restoring a central role to the civilizations of Asia and the Middle East.
For lovers of national history, History of France by Georges Duby is a masterful fresco that condenses centuries of social and political transformations with an elegant and accessible pen. Fans of emblematic figures will appreciate De Gaulle by Julian Jackson, a comprehensive and nuanced biography that explores the life and legacy of this giant of contemporary French history. Likewise, Marie-Antoinette: The solitude of the queen by Stefan Zweig offers a moving portrait of the last queen of France, between grandeur and tragedy.
Lovers of stories about the great conflicts of the 20th century will be captivated by The origins of the Second World War by Ian Kershaw. This work analyzes the political and economic choices that led to one of the most significant events of our time.
Choose a more unique book
For lovers of great stories, Le Mage du Kremlin by Giuliano da Empoli is a must. This captivating novel explores the corridors of power in Russia, between manipulation and mystery. For a different experience, Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin offers a moving reflection on friendship and creativity, perfect for readers looking for emotion and modernity. Lovers of classics will not be left out with white dog by Romain Gary, a timeless work combining humanist reflection and narrative power.
Thriller fans will appreciate gripping intrigues like In the mists of Capelins by Olivier Norek, a thriller with a unique and immersive atmosphere. But we can choose from his latest work, Winter Warriorswho notably received the Renaudot prize for high school students. Others will rather go towards The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins, a psychological work where every page is a surprise, published in 2015 and then adapted for the cinema. These stories, both captivating and intelligent, are perfect for maintaining suspense during the long winter evenings.
For curious minds, The Time of Feminisms by Michelle Perrot is a fascinating dive into the history and contemporary issues of women’s rights. In a different register, Children are kings by Delphine de Vigan questions the exposure of children on social networks, offering a story that is as intriguing as it is relevant. These works make you think about current themes while captivating their reader.
Illustration credits Pexels CC 0
By Victor De Sepausy
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