A Bookish Gift Guide
I love giving meaningful gifts—and what’s more meaningful than a good book? When you give the gift of a book, you are actually giving the gift of an experience, or an education, or an encouragement, or simply exposing them to a new thought or idea. I especially love the opportunities to gift a Christian book that has had an impact on my own life. So, if you need suggestions for the reader in your life this Christmas, then keep reading! I have recommendations for all ages of both men and women below.
Please note that I am not necessarily endorsing every author or ministry represented below, and that I also make no money from these recommendations.
Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin
This book is popular for all the right reasons. It’s a thorough and solid guide to studying the Bible, written for women at all stages of their walk with God. I received this as a Christmas gift several years ago, and this year I purchased a few copies to give as gifts.
Great for: your BFF, college or high school girls, or any female you know who is trying to grow in their spiritual walk
Heretics of Piedmont by D. J. Speckhals
First in a new series, this novel introduces readers to the Waldenians, Christians in the 12th century who stood up for the truths of the Bible in the face of terrible persecution. I love the excellent writing, intriguing plots, and believable character development!
Great for: a history buff, or men or women in full-time ministry
Honey for a Child’s Heart: The Imaginative Use of Books in Family Life by Gladys M. Hunt
This is a wonderful introduction to the world of children’s books, written from a Christian perspective. The author spends several chapters explaining why and how to introduce children to excellent literature, but the real ‘meat’ of the book is the thorough book lists at the end. This is a great resources for young moms! Purchase the latest edition to ensure that the book recommendations are up to date.
Great for: Moms of young children, homeschooling moms
Surprised by Oxford by Carolyn Weber
A memoir of the author’s time at Oxford, but more importantly, how she went from being an agnostic to embracing faith in Christ. This is a great gift for those who have the time or interest in pondering a good book with important life questions.
Great for: your intellectual friend; a gift exchange; an unsaved friend who is interested in learning more about Christianity
Teatime Discipleship: Sharing Faith One Cup at a Time by Sally Clarkson
This recent publication from Sally Clarkson is both a beautiful coffee table book and a practical guide to building discipleship relationships by slowing down with a cup of tea (or coffee!). Gift with a tin of your favorite tea! There’s also a version for mothers and daughters that I haven’t read yet.
Great for: your church secret sister/santa, women’s ministry directors, the tea lover
Tying the Knot: A Premarital Guide to a Strong and Lasting Marriage by Rob Green
This book is intended for couples in premarital counseling, but the material would be so applicable and useful for any engaged couple. This year my husband and I purchased copies to give as wedding and engagement gifts!
Great for: friends and family who recently got engaged
Disciplines of a Godly Man by R. Kent Hughes
Disclaimer: I haven’t read this one, but my husband recommends this as a staple for any Christian man’s library. This book walks through Biblical characteristics like personal discipline, leadership, purity, gentleness, friendship, marriage, and more. My husband shares that the chapters are short but rich with practical illustrations, and it’s good to work through individually or with a group. A teen edition is also available.
Great for: any Christian man on your shopping list, especially men in ministry, single men, husbands, and teen sons
Family Worship by Donald S. Whitney
Another recommendation from my husband: this book is a short and hands-on guide for men interested in spiritually leading their families. This will both help men learn how to start to lead their family, and also give practical ideas on how to continue leading.
Great for: husbands and fathers
Tiny Hands Hymns by Hannah Patricia Estes
This beautifully illustrated board book contains a verse or chorus from eight foundational Christian hymns. I love introducing my kids to these songs of faith! This would be a wonderful addition to a new baby’s library.
Great for: babies
Wishy Washy: A Board Book of First Words and Colors for Growing Minds by Tabitha Paige
This was my toddler’s favorite book last year; the gorgeous watercolor and simple rhymes caught my attention as well. I’ve purchased this book to give to both of my nephews this Christmas!
Great for: babies, toddlers
Amy Carmichael: The Brown Eyed Girl Who Learned to Pray by Hunter Beless
This storybook is a simple biography of missionary Amy Carmichael’s life. My two year old loves flipping through the pictures, and there are additional learning resources available online for older children. This book is part of the “Do Great Things for God” series, published by the Good Book Company. I haven’t read them all personally, but it looks like a great resource to introduce young girls to famous Christians from history!
Great for: toddler and elementary aged girls
The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson
These four books will introduce kids and those young at heart to a new world, perilous adventures, and lessons in family, loyalty, forgiveness, and sacrifice. Please, introduce your middle-grade and teen readers to books like these instead of secular young adult fiction. They are advertised for ages 8 and up, but might be too intense for younger readers.
Great for: Middle schoolers and teens; anyone who loves fantasy
I’d love to know—what books are you giving (or hoping to receive!) this year?
