holidays

Holidays. They’re upon us, as always, coming too rapidly, though months ago they seemed like glittering, far-distant things that we would never reach. When I was younger and privy to gifts from my parents, I asked for (and often received) gifts that were attractive, shiny and new—and for which I cared very little after a month or two. And the gifts I presented were often just as meaningless, last-minute trinkets given with little thought or care.

Not so this year. This year I do what I should have done years ago. This is The Year of the Gift Book—whereby every person on my gift list will receive at least one book catered specifically to their interests, needs, wants, beliefs or loves. (Lest I should worry anyone, other gifts will be given as well. But the truly special one will be the book.)

It seems painfully obvious that I should give books. I work at a publishing company. I endeavor to write professionally. Reading and writing are my favorite pastimes. I love books. (As one of my close friends is quick to remind me, our friendship began with her present to me of a Borders gift card, which I used to purchase the complete Chronicles of Narnia.) And as a reader of this blog, I can only surmise that you feel the same, at least to an extent.

Nor can we forget that times are still difficult for many of us, and casual expenses from holidays years ago are less feasible now. But I promised myself that I would never feel guilty for spending money on a book, and besides, they are not expensive gifts. It is in fact one of the least expensive purchases you can make, and—when chosen with insight and care—can be one of the most richly rewarding.

One needn’t forget too that the publishing industry (and the retail world at large) has high hopes for this holiday season, and it represents a prime opportunity to support local bookstores. Not only that, but the booksellers who work in these shops are more than happy to offer suggestions of books in a variety of genres and styles—my favourite local shop, BookPeople, has dozens upon dozens of recommendations coloring its shelves that can leave you browsing for hours— and that is how I intend to pick many of my gifts.

Looking for resources to pick one book or a dozen? Here’s a few links for a good start:

• Penguin Group asked several of its authors to recommend What to Give & What to Get (in books, that is).
• Hawes Publications provides a complete list of past New York Times Bestsellers.
• What Should I Read Next? is an innovative site that allows you to choose your next book based on what you’re reading now.
• Have a writer in your life? Try the top ten recommendations for freelance writers at The Freelance Writing Jobs Network.
• The Young Adult Library Services Association has a grand series of Young Adult book recommendations by year.

Happy Holidays to you all, and see you after Thanksgiving!