There’s a bookworm hiding in every friend group, and if you’re the one sitting in a cozy corner of your local library, here’s a hint: it’s probably you. For those of us in search of the perfect gift for our bibliophile besties, it can be a little more daunting than expected. If you don’t know their favorite genre or author, you run the risk of buying a book they’ll never read. Worse yet, if you do know their reading habits, you might be sending them a second copy of something. Regardless of the circumstance, I’ve found it’s a safer choice to opt for presents that are reading-adjacent, like an electric kettle, fuzzy blanket, or bookmark that might just spark a passion for embroidery. In honor of World Book Day on April 23, I’ve rounded up some of the best buys you can get for your favorite bookworm — even if that’s you!
There are reading lights, and then there are reading lights. Don’t ask me to explain the difference; I’ll just send you a link to this rechargeable light with three color temperatures (yellow, warm white, and cool white), three power settings, and 80 hours of reading time on a single charge. The light wraps around your neck and features bendable arms that you can adjust depending on your position. Eye-saving illumination? Check. Ergonomics? Check. Narrow angled lighting so you don’t disturb your partner? Check, check, check.
I recently started taking baths in my adulthood and I can’t believe I didn’t start sooner. There is nothing more relaxing than soaking in hot water, drinking a cup of mint tea, and reading a book. The only thing that could make it better? A bamboo tray that affords me a little more counter space than the thin edges of my tub. This one has built-in compartments for a wine glass and your phone, plus an adjustable tray to fit your book or tablet. The whole piece can extend or shrink to fit your tub, too.
Not everyone wants to have a book light as a necklace (though I have heard a neck light is the flashiest accessory of 2024). I get that! For a simpler, less wearable option, check out this clip-on light that has three color modes, five brightness levels, and an equally long 80-hour battery life. The light is distributed evenly and spreads pretty widely across the book, which eliminates dim areas and helps keep your eyes sharp.
Reading and writing don’t always go together, but it’s always a good idea to have a notebook on hand in the event that they do. Avid readers can fill this 160-page lined journal with thoughts on their latest read, or use it as a way to track books they’ve finished or are eager to check out. The vegan leather cover is soft enough to feel elegant and hard enough to protect the pages inside. Sometimes, gift-giving can be this simple.
It’s not a coincidence that bookstores and cafes frequently crop up next to — if not inside — each other! Reading can be hard work, and proper hydration is key. If your favorite bookworm takes their hot tea on the sweeter side, this no-drip glass honey dispenser could be right up their alley. The honey flows from the bottom when you press the release, and immediately stops when you lift your finger. And don’t let the cute honeycomb design limit you — feel free to fill it with maple syrup, sugar, caramel, or chocolate sauce for a different sweet experience!
There’s nothing worse than pouring a hot cup of tea or coffee, sinking into your couch or reading chair, and realizing three chapters in that your drink’s gone cold. This cozy companion is the perfect way to make sure you don’t forget about your favorite hot beverage. Since it’s made of insulating foam, the cup holes can stretch to fit most mugs and glasses, keeping them secure and warm for longer. And in the event that something does spill — or it just needs a good clean — the covers are removable and machine washable!
This tabletop fire pit might be the coolest (and simultaneously, the hottest) upgrade for someone’s reading nook. Simply pour in some isopropyl or ethyl alcohol, allow the ceramic wool insert to soak it up, and light yourself a little fire! The stainless steel liner insulates the fire while the stone exterior stays cool enough to handle. It comes with a protective pad for the surface it rests on, along with four roasting sticks in case you get snacky for a s’more.
For the one friend who just stacks their books against the wall and refuses to buy shelving, consider this space-saving corner unit. And look — I’m not going to say I’m thinking of one specific friend right now, but I am. And chances are if I know someone like that, you do, too. These shelves are easy to assemble and come with all the necessary tools for installation. Help your bookworm bestie breathe a little life (and organization) into their book-ridden apartment!
Sometimes sitting down to read a book means setting the right mood. For me, candles are a quick way to get cozy with warm ambient light and a soothing scent. This one is made of a soy wax combined with sage for a soft lemon smell and a cleansing energy. In addition to its aromatherapeutic uses, sage is also known for its odor-eliminating properties, which makes this a great gift for someone who spends time in their kitchen before relaxing with a book.
It’s safe to say that the Kindle revolutionized e-reading, and its enduring popularity is a testament to a high-quality, durable product. The latest version of the tablet features slimmer borders, a 10-week battery life, adjustable warm light, and up to 20% faster page turns. Beach readers and bath takers will be thrilled to know it’s also designed to withstand accidental immersion in water, which helps keep the reading experience relaxing and carefree. Those wary of taking tablets out in the sun can also rest assured that the glare-free screen is easy to read wherever you are!
Once your friend enters the world of tablets and e-readers, they’ll probably need a few gadgets to complement their newest toy. And if they’re a fan of reading on their back or on the go, this hand strap might be the perfect accessory! Think of it like your phone’s pop-socket or finger-ring, but bigger. The elastic strap stretches to grip your hand in various positions, and the clamps that secure the strap can be adjusted, as well.
There’s also the matter of protecting an e-reader after investing in one. This artificial leather case provides ample security while also offering a foldable stand and hand strap for a comfortable reading experience whatever your position. The sturdy silicone corner grips keep the tablet in place without slippage, and the elastic band keeps the front cover on when not in use. This is a solid case for full-fledged tablets as well, but note that it doesn’t have a camera opening on the back to allow picture taking.
While not every book is made into a successful TV show or movie, some are — and most bookworms get pretty excited at the prospect of their favorite series hitting the screen. Rather than restricting them to an e-reader, there’s always the option to opt for the Amazon Fire tablet. You can flip from book, to a fan-fiction search on Google, to a YouTube deep dive on a character arc, to a streaming service to watch your favorite fiction come to life. The Fire is one of the more affordable models out there while still offering an impressive 3 GB of RAM and a 13-hour battery life.
I get a lot of different looks from people when I tell them that I can’t read without music, but it’s true. Silence isn’t for everyone, and can often be even more distracting than the hustle and bustle of a restaurant or crowded public space. If that’s the case for a reader in your life, give them the gift of a high-quality audio experience so they can plug in and unwind without bothering roommates or family members. JBL’s Tune headphones are wireless and boast up to 55 hours of active listening time.
The best thing about books is that you can take them pretty much anywhere — planes, trains and automobiles are just the start. But for folks who need help blocking out the surrounding commotion to really dig into their novel, a pair of noise-canceling headphones can make a huge difference. This model from Sony has exceptional active noise cancelation (ANC) and a touch-pad to control volume, skip tracks or take calls. Pro-tip: even if I don’t want to listen to music, I sometimes turn on the ANC just to help mute the background in loud environments like planes or restaurants.
To me, the electric kettle always seemed like an unnecessary purchase — until, of course, I got one as a gift. Something about flipping a switch to boil water is so much easier than heating up a kettle on the stovetop. This one made of stainless steel and borosilicate glass can bring two cups of water to a rolling boil in two minutes, which means less waiting, quicker sipping, and more reading. The kettle automatically shuts off when it reaches a boil, and the wide mouth at the top makes it easy to clean, too.
In order for beverages and books to go hand-in-hand, you have to be able to take them both to go. This stainless steel travel mug from Contigo is vacuum insulated, keeping coffee and tea hot for up to five hours. The lid is also spill- and leak-proof, and the button that releases the seal can be pushed without using both hands. Catch me with a riveting book in one hand and this mug in another next time I’m reading on the go.
Not everyone likes to read outside or in public, which means they probably have their own drink station set-up at home. Add to their collection with this lead-free mug set that’s microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe. We’re a big fan of the soft, neutral colors since they’ll look right at home in almost any kitchen or living room. These mugs hold a full 16 ounces, keeping you caffeinated for a whole reading session.
For me, coziness is key, and throw blankets are the way to my heart. This fleece one has a delightful ribbed texture and comes in a wide range of colors to suit anyone’s interior decoration style. It’s soft and warm, but still lightweight so you won’t suffocate underneath it. Truthfully, this blanket puts me at risk of setting my book down and falling asleep, but I’m not mad. Those chapters will be there when I wake up!
Wearable blankets might seem a little kitschy to some, but for those of us who struggle to regulate our temperature, they’re heaven sent. This one has a microfiber exterior and a sherpa lining, complete with a hood and pockets. It’s designed to be oversized, so it goes down to around knee-length, allowing you to tuck your legs into it if desired. The sleeves have elastic cuffs, which help keep the fabric from obstructing your page-turns and book-holds.
Compression has long been a really helpful tool for helping to reduce and manage anxiety. Some of us are just now realizing just how soothing a little bit of weight can be, which has led weighted blankets to surge in popularity. This one is made of a breathable, polyester fabric that can apply pressure without making you sweat during your next reading session after a long day. They’re offered in different sizes and weights, so make sure to choose the one that suits your body best.
These sticky note page markers are a great gift for true bibliophiles who 1) prefer to read physical, printed books and 2) are terrified to mark up or manipulate their pages in any way. The set includes 1200 individual tabs in a huge range of colors, so each theme or character can have their own shade! Unlike other tabs, these are made to write on and won’t smear. Plus, they’re easy to remove from the page without tearing or damaging the paper.
A couple friends of mine have floating shelves like these, and I have to say: there’s something kind of poetic about a stack of books that appears to be suspended in mid-air. It’s a nice reminder that imagination and creativity can exist anywhere. On the practical side, it’s also a clean and minimalistic way to store your story collection! In addition to being ideal for small spaces or awkward walls, these shelves are easy to install and come with all the necessary tools to hang them.
Books have sleeves, so why wouldn’t your Kindle have one? This soft-shell protective case fits devices that are between six and seven inches and has a zipper enclosure for the main pocket. An additional front pocket is the perfect place to store your headphones or charging cords. The material is water resistant and helps protect your e-reader from scratches while you’re in transit.
Coming in at less than one inch, this little book page holder is small but smart. It’s a curved wooden ring that slides onto your thumb and helps press down the pages while you’re reading with one hand. Made of smooth, durable walnut wood, the ring comes in a few different sizes for thumbs of all shapes. It’s by far the tiniest item on our book lover’s list, but it’s a good thing that it’s not the size of the gift that matters!
I feel like canvas tote bags are a meme in and of themselves, but that doesn’t mean a cute one doesn’t hold a place in the upper echelon of book lover’s prized possessions. Kate Spade makes this printed version with a few notable literary titles on the side, speaking straight the soul of your fiction-frenzied bestie. My favorite part? It has a secondary pocket on the inside so smaller items like your phone, wallet, and keys won’t get lost in the stack of books you’re hauling around.
I can’t be the only one who loves a statement sock. Some of my favorites have been avocado, ramen, and bourbon old-fashioned themed, but these take the proverbial cake. They might be labeled as women’s novelty socks, but personally, I think anyone with enough spunk will love the message stitched into them. They’re made of a blend of nylon, cotton, and spandex for a stretchy, soft feel, and are machine washable, as well.
As any good world-builder or storyteller knows, the devil’s in the details. In addition to being filled with a tasty English breakfast tea, each of these bags features a different literary quote so each reading (and sipping) session is imbued with a fresh sense of creativity. If you’re looking to create your own gift basket for your favorite bookworm, this “NovelTea” would make a perfect addition to a ceramic mug, electric kettle and honey dispenser! The description says it all: “Read ‘em and steep!”
Some of the coolest literary-inspired artwork I’ve seen have been creative displays of books — especially the way the pages fan out. This lamp is no exception, emanating a warm light that may not be bright enough for reading, but perfectly sets the ambiance for a cozy night in. The wood shell is made of maple, and the light itself can be set to one of three different shades. It’s rechargeable and has a four to six hour battery life.
You need a comfy chair to read, so why wouldn’t a book need a comfy chair to be read? The book seat is like a mini bean bag for your reading material that allows you to peruse hands-free. It can rest on your lap, stomach, or next to you on the couch, and the adjustable holder can accommodate tablets, too! It also has a small pocket on the back to fit a pair of earbuds, reading glasses, or pen for when you get to the good part and want to annotate.
If your friend finds pleasure out of sitting down for long spells to read a book, it’s likely they have the requisite patience to also enjoy puzzling! (Truthfully, every bookworm I know is also a big fan of puzzles. I haven’t done any research on it yet, but I’m pretty sure they’re connected.) Plus, what’s cozier than putting together a picture that really does depict the reader’s paradise? You can find me daydreaming about the little reading nook shown right next to the staircase.
Coasters are probably the smallest investment you can make to help prolong the life (and appearance) of your favorite wooden table. These just so happen to be literary-themed, and feature vintage library card stamps that will have you wondering what decade you’re in. The top is made from plastic and the underside of cork-like material to make sure your surfaces stay protected. Though the due dates listed on the coasters aren’t real, they might help you remember to return your hardcover (or virtual) books on time!
Any good writer will tell you that their journey started as a good reader. So for those bookworms in our lives who are hoping to pen something substantial of their own, this creative writing dice game could be just what they need! The nine color-coded dice prompt the players by providing the who, what, when, where, why, how, and more. This is one of the rare games that’s equally fun and engaging when played on one’s own, but don’t hesitate to bring these out next time you host a particularly creative crowd.
I’ve loved food for a long time, but long before I was a cook, I was a reader. It’s no wonder some of my earliest memories of reading revolve around feast scenes where characters are preparing and indulging in inventive and presumably delectable cordials, pasties, casseroles, ales, cakes, and pies. This clever cookbook pairs real references to the Harry Potter series with inventive ingredients to create tasty treats that you and your kids can enjoy.
Growing up, I had a lap desk that consisted of a bean bag backing and a large, plastic writing surface. It even had a little clamp to help hold down paper for writing purposes. These days, so much of our work and reading is done electronically that companies design lap desks to accommodate tablets instead! This memory foam version provides two different viewing angles and features pockets for a stylus or a charging cord.
The beauty of reading is that it’s a pastime enjoyed by people of all ages. But as your favorite bookworm starts to age, their ability to read small print can decline. This page magnifier and LED light combo can be a game changer for them. Users can control the brightness and tone of the light with just one button, and the lens itself can magnify text up to five times. It’s light, weighing only four ounces, making it easy to handle and transport.
I’ll admit: the year I turned 21, I received two copies of this book from different friends. I guess I’m a bit of a bookworm myself, and I’ve been known to have an interest (or obsession) with home bartending, too. And truthfully, there’s nothing better than a tasty cocktail named after a clever, classic literary pun. The title is just the beginning, I promise.
Remember when I said the title is just the beginning? I meant it. Tequila Mockingbird was so popular that the author and illustrator collaborated for a second edition with even more inventive, literary-themed recipes for the boozy bibliophiles in our lives. This one dips its proverbial toe into modern references like “Fifty Shades of Grey Goose” and “The Handmaid’s Ale,” no doubt popularized by the award-winning TV show. It also includes some bar-bite food recipes and fun drinking (or non-drinking) games!
A good bookmark goes a long way, especially for readers who prefer not to dog ear their last page. This set of wooden bookmarks is carved with four unique patterns and polished by hand. We’ve linked a traditional Chinese style design here, but they offer a few different variations to choose from depending on who’s receiving the gift. Plus, they’re thick enough to be durable, but still thin enough to slide comfortably inside the pages.
These hand-embroidered bookmarks have all the subtlety of dog ears with none of the damage done! A cardboard backing is stitched onto the felt patch, providing stability and ensuring the bookmark stays fastened on the corner of the page. They offer a few different seasonal designs in every letter of the alphabet, so your favorite reader won’t feel left out. Summer is my favorite, but I’ll let you choose your own!
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