39 best gifts for book lovers, recommended by avid readers

Books can serve as a comfort, an escape from reality, or a life lesson. That’s why the best gifts for book lovers are those that celebrate the power of words and the people who love them. While new books are nice, these thoughtful presents help elevate the reading experience — whether you’re looking for a gift for friends you swap recs with or shopping for your BookTok-obsessed teenage niece.
There are also gift ideas for the wannabe librarians among us (you know who they are) and the rare dorks who studied Old English in college (ourselves included). Affordable Christmas gifts are plentiful too, if you're looking for a Secret Santa present or a small stocking stuffer. Ultimately, the best gift for anyone who loves books is one that makes reading a book even better. Scroll on for some of the best gifts for book lovers, many of which are also some of our favourite presents for women and the best gifts for men in 2024.
Best gifts for book worms at a glance:
- Best E-Reader: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, £149.99
- Best Reading Journal: Papier Journal, £24.65
- Best Creative: Book Lover Trivia Travel Card Game, £10
- Best Candle: Maison Margiela Replica Whispers in The Library, £15
- Best Book Light: TEAMPD 10 LED Book Light, £6.64
Ahead, our full edit of the best gifts for book lovers, as endorsed by literary experts.
Reading Journal
We love this gorgeous reading journal from Papier, and we reckon every reader will too. The ideal way to track down recent reads, favourite reads and what you’d like to read next, it’s beautifully designed and perfectly laid out. Adding to cart.
Kindle Paperwhite
When it comes to Kindles, Amazon's Paperwhite edition is the best of the bunch. Lightweight and slick with adjustable warm light so it’s easy on the eyes, it's perfect for home and away. It’s also waterproof, cementing it as the ideal holiday companion.
Book Lover Trivia Travel Card Game
This is the present that any bookish friend would love, challenging players' knowledge of classic and contemporary literature from famous books and authors to iconic quotes. The perfect companion for bookworms on the go.
Refills of Compostable Coffee Pods
Is there a more iconic duo than books and coffee? We don’t think so, and this is the subscription of dreams for your bookish pals. Grind’s Nespresso compatible pods are home compostable and utterly delicious, and recipients can choose the blend they fancy. What’s more, Grind will throw in one of their gorgeous pink tins for free when you buy each subscription.
Lara Armchair
This armchair is a dream come true for book lovers, with its ergonomic design and cosy upholstery that envelops you in comfort. The ideal companion for long reading sessions.
BYREDO Bibliothèque Eau de Parfum 50ml
A luxury treat for book-lovers and, quite possibly, the perfect perfume. A magical blend of leather-bound luxury with notes of cinnamon, plum and patchouli. There’s nothing quite like this out there and we know bookworms are going to love it.
Bistro Tiled Margot Monogram Mug
We've tried them all, and this mug from Anthropologie cannot be beaten. It’s the ideal size to hold that steaming coffee that any reader will crave with their current read.
Lyra Throw
There is surely nothing better than reading whilst nestling up on the couch under the cosiest throw, and this knitted and soft cotton design by The White Company is what every book lover desires. Whether it’s a birthday or Christmas gift, this will work in any room and be so comforting day or night.
Wilma Table Lamp
When it comes to reading, lighting is key, and we reckon we’ve found the perfect addition to every bookish bedside table and reading nook. In the form of Pooky’s Lillee table lamp.
Leather Bookmarks Set of 4
There are bookmarks and then, there are bookmarks; this stunning set of four crafted by the inimitable Anya Hindmarch herself are the gift that every bibliophile needs to enhance their reading experience. No more cracked spines and dog-eared corners, they are, quite simply, the ultimate book candy.
Maison Margiela Replica Whispers in The Library Candle
Every bookworm will know that unique library smell – and now you can buy it. Any luxe scented candle is always going to be a great gift, but with a name like Whispers in The Library bursting with notes of vanilla, cedar, pepper, and benzoin, this one is our winner. It will transport you to being amidst the calm of bookshelves. Maison Margiela say this is a memory in a candle .
100 Books Scratch Bucket List Poster
So many books, so little time. We know the feeling and here’s the perfect gift to help a loved one prioritise that never-ending list of titles to be read. Beautifully put together, this poster is packed to the brim with 100 of the greatest novels ever written.
Mataram Natural Rattan Shelf Unit
This shelf unit is a bookworm's best friend, offering ample space for book storage while maintaining a sleek and stylish look that complements any room. It's the perfect solution for organising and displaying your literary collection in an elegant and efficient way.
Bright Shapes Index Tabs (Set of 2)
Book tabs are in the book bag of every serious reader and student, and Papier has created a gorgeous set of shapes and notes to bring a touch of colour and fun to your annotating.
Are You There God? It's Me, Margarita: More Cocktails with a Literary Twist
Blend the art of mixology and iconic books with this gem of a book that is the ideal gift for a book lover who likes a drink or two. With cocktail recipes inspired by famous authors and their works this is both witty, useful, and delicious.
Personalised Book Shelf Print
For something truly bespoke, why not try this fabulous piece of art? That’s right; you pick the titles, and the artist will liaise with you on the design, to create a one-of-a-kind gift that any book-lover is bound to adore. We’d like a few each, actually.
The Story of Art Without Men
The Story of Art Without Men" is the ultimate coffee table book, offering a unique and captivating journey through the world of art with a refreshing female perspective, with beautifully curated collection of artworks and insightful inclusive narratives.
John Lewis Acacia Wood Cookbook/Tablet Stand
Whether its for a cook book or a novel, a book stand can be a game-changer for avid readers, providing the perfect solution for hands-free reading while maintaining an elegant and minimalist design.
Ex Libris: 100+ Books to Read and Reread
From one of the most revered critics in the literary world comes a glorious collection of one hundred books to read and re-read. From The Great Gatsby to The Odyssey, Kakutani’s favourites are surrounded by magnificent illustrations, making this the ideal present for any book-lover’s coffee table.
Falke Melody Socks
Contemporary but cosy, Falke’s socks are a truly delectable treat for the bookish. Snuggle up on the sofa, novel in hand; feet perfectly warmed – these will be enjoyed any time of day or night.
TEAMPD 10 LED Book Light
All bookworms have been there; they want to get a spot of late night or early morning reading in but they’re worried they might disturb others with their antics. Enter: the reading light. Sleek, discreet and oh so reasonable, this little lamp might just change their life.
Bisenty Utility Cart on Wheels
Book Carts have been everywhere on social media, and lets face it what could be better than an Insta-worthy place to store the overflow of books that can follow a bookworm from room to room? So practical and such a good gift.
Knock Knock Original Personal Library Kit
If you like sharing books but if your friend is worried about forgetting who has borrowed from them, this will give them hours of enjoyment, with book plates, card catalogues and date stamps.
Audible Subscription
Gone are the days when reading solely meant curling up with a book in hand; now, reading takes many more shapes and forms. One of those is audible, and its huge popularity is proof that the audiobook is very much here to stay.
There’s a broad offering in terms of subscription packages – we’re sure you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.
Americanah: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Modern Classic
If you know someone has a favourite book, it is such a wonderful gift to get them a special or collector edition. Americanah is a must read from a legendary writer, that is newly released in the Collins Modern Classics with a stunning new design.
BookBar Gift Voucher
Bookbar is the coolest bookshop in London, and a voucher from them can be spent on books, wine, and coffee. Oh, and they hold author events also.
Jane Austen: The Complete Works
A clothbound hardback is a highly desired book, and this set is just so beautiful. These are statement pieces to elevate any bookshelf and what could be better than a Jane Austen set to delight every bibliophile.
Postcards from Penguin
One hundred postcards in a box, this quite simply is the gift that keeps on giving. Each postcard features one of Penguin’s most celebrated jackets; from classics to crime, they’re such fun to flick through and will bring a smile to any bibliophile’s face.
World Of The Brontes 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle
If you are looking for a gift for a reader who loves nothing more than spending hours over a puzzle, this World of the Brontes one is such a great option. It has the beloved Heathcliffs and Rochesters, a fold out poster and will be hours of soothing fun.
Book Stamp
Is there anything worse than lending out your books only to never, ever have them returned? Well, we reckon this beautiful, personalised book stamp will put bookworms out there at ease because now, they can ensure each and every one of their books is marked up with their name inside. An original and thoughtful gift.
Universal Kindle And eReader Book Cover Cases
This is a must-have accessory for e-reader enthusiasts. It offers both protection and style, whilst the design is a reminder of the beauty of old books.
Pride and Prejudice Book Pendant
A gorgeous and unique gift idea; inspired by Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, this pendant has been cut from dazzling marble blue acrylic, layered over walnut wood, and hangs from an adjustable gold-plated chain. Designed to look like a first edition of this classic title, it’s the ultimate outfit enhancer for any bibliophile.
LSW London | Mind Notes
Readers tend to be thinkers, too – and what better way for bookworms to collate their thoughts than in this sleek and stylish wellness journal. With ample space to reflect on the day’s intentions and activities as well as set goals, this gift is self-care encapsulated in beautiful book form created by a cognitive therapist.
Daunt Books Tote Bag
When it comes to book bags, we’re quite sure we’ve tried them, all and nothing beats the iconic Daunt tote. Not only is it beautiful, with a gorgeous illustration of the bookshop, it also lasts which for a tote bag is quite something. an essential item for any book-lover.
The Secret Life of Plants Acrylic Book Vase
This would be such a gorgeous Christmas present, versatile as it acts as both book ends and vase. It will make any bookshelf social media worthy; we love the fresh aesthetic from the acrylic which will work with any colour palette.
Nora Ephron Women's Prize Tee - Colour Edition
The perfect outfit for any bibliophile to wear from book club to night club, these Women’s Prize t-shirts are super on trend and look great with jeans or a power suit. This is such a great gift idea that supports a brilliant literary charity.
Conceal Book Shelf
These are the shelves that every bibliophile wants. You can put them in any room and showcase your favourite books. This is such a simple and effective present that gives the illusion of books floating on walls.
Fell Asleep Here Magnetic Bookmark
This has got to be the cleverest bookmark, securing your place however your book gets left. A unique bookish gift that easily attaches to the page and is such a brilliant addition to your reading.





































