So, I’m moving across the country this summer- back to my home province of Ontario. I’m ready for the snowy winters and the humid summers. 

After my seven-year adventure in beautiful British Columbia with all the memories and amazing friends I’ve made, I feel the need for closure. And as a writer, books seem to be the perfect: “Goodbye. I’ll cherish our time together. You’ve taught me so much,” gift.

As I reflect on the perfect book for each person on my list, I follow 3 criteria that will make each gift thoughtful and valuable.

Picture books or poetry are a great option. I want this person to pick up this book at their leisure and flip through it. It shouldn’t be a chore. Gifting someone a novel or a nonfiction topic they may have no interest in can make them feel obligated to slog through the book. That’s not what I want!

This is not the time to gift a self-help book.

The gift should make the recipient feel seen and understood. You don’t want them wondering what you were trying to tell them through this gift.

I’d only purchase books for those I know well enough to understand what ideas interest them or, in the case of one of my colleagues, I’m gifting a book that she borrows from me each year so that she can have her own personal copy.

Keep your ears open for any unintentional clues that they leave behind!

I’m not gifting any book based on a Goodreads synopsis. If I haven’t put the time in to read it, how in the world will I know it is valuable? You shouldn’t expect them to open a book that you haven’t.

Using this criteria, I’ve reflected on the amazing books that have come into my life over the past 7 years. These books have tiny grains of wisdom and inspiration that I am excited to pass on!

This short picture book follows an empathetic rock named Ishi who guides readers through simple strategies for when they’re feeling stuck, reminding us to choose to walk towards happiness.

The companion website shares what Ishi is up to each day and allows you to become a Happiness Ambassador, connecting us with those spreading Ishi’s message across the world.

Gift this book to: Anyone who’d likely share it with little ones

Pair it with: A worry rock

This beautiful book is written and drawn by the author himself. It follows a young boy who befriends three animals. Along their journey, they learn simple pieces of wisdom from each other including what makes a home and a true friend. On each page, the reader finds truths that we all know subconsciously brought into print.

Gift this book to: A searching soul or sentimentalist

Pair it with: A homemade card, inscribed with one of these beautiful quotes

This book reminds me so much of Mackesy’s. It’s again filled with tiny grains of wisdom, yet this time the book leaves readers acknowledging the lessons they learn from nature. Big Panda and Tiny Dragon get lost on their journey through the seasons and learn so much from each other along the way. 

Gift this book to: Nature lovers and introspectives

Pair it with: The reader’s favourite tea or even the tea box gift set for this book

Morgan Harper is an amazing poet and author. She’s worth following on Instagram for a daily dose of joy!

This book is an illustrated collection of poetry and essays that muse upon the human journey through the ups and the downs, the pain and the hope. I could take any page out of her book and frame it!

Gift this book to: Someone on a difficult journey or someone who is navigating an exciting new chapter in their life

Pair it with: The Boy, The Fox, The Mole and The Horse- build a connection between the last words in this book “Look how far we’ve come” to the title of Harper’s collection.

Some people steer clear of gifting books. I get it. Choosing which book to read is a personal decision. But, a book can say so much about the connection between the gifter and giftee. 

I encourage you to consider giving this a try. You might just find that the person is grateful for such a thoughtful gift!

Do you have any books that you love gifting? Drop them in the comments below.

Let’s share some new inspiring reads!

Talk soon!

Julia