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We love books.  As you can tell by the picture above, they get a lot of love in our house.  I think books make the best gifts, especially when you have no idea what to get someone.  I like to write notes inside special books, too, so the recipient can always remember when he/she first received it.  I cherish the books I’ve been given over the years with handwritten notes inside.

With the holidays approaching, I thought this post might be helpful as you start your shopping.  The majority of the books in this list are ones that our family loves personally, but I also surveyed others to help me compile everything below.  There were so many to recommend, it was hard to narrow it down! Many of these books you will have heard of, but some will surely be new to you.  I hope I’ve done a good job providing different types of books for all ages and all genders.  Please leave other book ideas in the comment section below!  We can work together to make this an even better resource going forward for all of us.

To make things as easy as possible for you, I have included images, pricing, and a link for quick locating. From now until 12/31/12 Barnes and Noble looks to be offering free shipping for any order over $25, too.  Be sure to keep a lookout online for other offers that may come up–if I see any, I’ll be sure to let you know as well!

I have provided links to all the books below, but please note that sometimes they are hardcover and sometimes they are paperback.  Some are listed in sets, and some are listed individually.  Please look carefully if you do make any purchases.  I don’t want you to think you’ve ordered a paperback book when the link actually took you to a hardcover one or vice versa!  :)

For more holiday ideas, be sure to check out another post I recently wrote:  100 photo ideas to inspire your holiday cards where I compiled 100 pictures to help you brainstorm for your upcoming holiday pictures.  I hope that post is helpful, too!

Lastly, please keep in mind as you view the book recommendations for kids that not all children read at the same level nor are they emotionally ready to read certain books at the same time.  I did my best to categorize the books by age, but some children might be ready to read a book sooner, and others may benefit from waiting until they are older to read the same book.

Happy reading everyone!  And Happy Holidays, too!  :)

 

Make the holidays special this year with a personalized children's book or other special gift from I See Me!

CHRISTMAS

A Christmas Spider's Miracle by Trinka Hakes Noble, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

A Christmas Spider’s Miracle by Trinka Hakes Noble, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

This is a beautiful book based on an old Ukrainian tale. A sweet story about two mothers–a peasant woman and a spider–and what they have in common. They share a magical and unforgettable Christmas Eve night.
Price: $12.90
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss, Random House Children's Books | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss, Random House Children’s Books | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

This is a book every family should have! A classic story about the true meaning of Christmas. This is a favorite in our house!
Price: $9.82
The Elf on the Shelf (Light Skinned - Boy) by Carol V. Aebersold, CCA and B, LLC | Hardcover

The Elf on the Shelf (Light Skinned – Boy) by Carol V. Aebersold, CCA and B, LLC | Hardcover

This would make a great gift for a family with young children! Kids everywhere love to talk about their elves and their adventures! It’s all the rage among our kids and their friends. This book comes with the elf. (You may want a certain gender or skin color for your elf–this one is the boy with brown hair and light skin. This is the one we happen to have.) The idea is that the elf watches the children all day long, and then he flies back to the North Pole to report to Santa about their behavior. The next morning the elf appears in a new hiding place, and the kids love to find their elf each morning. Oftentimes the elf gets into some crazy predicaments! :) The kids also enjoy naming their elf. Ours is “Tom” and our girls refer to him as if he’s a family member!
Price: $29.95
Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson, Margaret K. McElderry Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover, Board Book

Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson, Margaret K. McElderry Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover, Board Book

This would make a fun Christmas gift. It’s a cute story with great rhyming. Kids and adults will both enjoy this book. (All the “Bear” books by Karma Wilson are great. I mention another one below–“Bear Snores On”)
Price: $9.99
Llama Llama Holiday Drama by Anna Dewdney, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover

Llama Llama Holiday Drama by Anna Dewdney, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover

We love the Llama Llama books! They have fun rhyming, and the kids think they are hilarious. This would be a gift any young child would love to receive this Christmas!
Price: $14.98
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt | Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt | Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

A treasured holiday classic. This set includes an audio CD and a keepsake ornament.
Price: $10.76
My Very First Christmas by Lois Rock, Good Books | Hardcover

My Very First Christmas by Lois Rock, Good Books | Hardcover

My daughter received this book with a note inside from her grandparents on her first Christmas. She often asks for these stories to be read to her any time of the year. A nice keepsake book for a baby celebrating his or her first Christmas.
Price: $13.83
That's Not My Reindeer: Its Body Is Too Furry by Fiona Watt, EDC Publishing | Board Book

That’s Not My Reindeer: Its Body Is Too Furry by Fiona Watt, EDC Publishing | Board Book

This would be a great gift for a child 6-18 months. They love to feel things, and the different textures on each page would intrigue them. All of the “That’s Not My…” books are loved by us. “That’s Not My Dinosaur” is another favorite for any time of the year.
Price: $8.99

 

Family Christmas Ornaments

AGES 0-3: BOARD BOOKS

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr., Henry Holt and Co.

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr., Henry Holt and Co.

Our all-time favorite book for kids ages 0-3! This book helps kids learn about animals and colors, and it’s fun to read with a strong beat. Every young child will love this book!
Price: $10.61
From Head to Toe by Eric Carle, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback, Hardcover

From Head to Toe by Eric Carle, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback, Hardcover

This book is right up there with “Brown Bear, Brown Bear” (above). A fun book for little ones–they get to stomp their foot like an elephant, arch their back like a cat, etc. We love this book!
Price: $7.19
My First Word Board Book by DK Publishing, DK Publishing, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Board Book

My First Word Board Book by DK Publishing, DK Publishing, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Board Book

For babies learning words, this book is awesome! We used this book almost every night when our girls were tiny. Our copy is old and worn. They feel such pride when they are able to point out objects and you will be cheering for your child like crazy! Such fun moments.
Price: $5.39
My First Animal Board Book (My First Board Books) by DK Publishing, DK Publishing, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Board Book

My First Animal Board Book (My First Board Books) by DK Publishing, DK Publishing, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Board Book

Another favorite baby book. Children love animals and learning about the sounds they make. This is another fun book for the tiniest people in your life! :) All of the “My First” books are great.
Price: $5.39
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Board Book

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Board Book

Every little boy and girl should have this book! A classic story.
Price: $5.75
Goodnight Moon (Board Book) by Margaret Wise Brown, HarperCollins Publishers | Board Book

Goodnight Moon (Board Book) by Margaret Wise Brown, HarperCollins Publishers | Board Book

This book is another must-have! Love this classic story. Our girls loved to find the tiny mouse on each page. :) This link takes you to the board book, but there is also a hardcover version if you’d like to use this book as more of a keepsake.
Price: $8.09
Little Quack by Lauren Thompson, Little Simon | Hardcover, Board Book

Little Quack by Lauren Thompson, Little Simon | Hardcover, Board Book

This has been a favorite among our girls. Helps kids learn to count. There is always a lot of cheering when Little Quack finally finds the courage to take a dip! :)
Price: $7.19
The Very Busy Spider: A Lift-the-Flap Book by Eric Carle, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Paperback, Hardcover, Board Book

The Very Busy Spider: A Lift-the-Flap Book by Eric Carle, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Paperback, Hardcover, Board Book

This is a fun book, complete with flaps to lift (which little ones love!) I must admit that I find spider webs less annoying now after reading this–it makes me think more about how hard that little spider worked!
Price: $5.69
Things That Go: Lift-the-Flap by DK Publishing, DK Publishing, Inc. | Board Book

Things That Go: Lift-the-Flap by DK Publishing, DK Publishing, Inc. | Board Book

Little boys in particular will like this one, complete with flaps to lift!
Price: $6.29

 

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AGES 0 & UP. HARDCOVER (KEEPSAKES)

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein, HarperCollins Publishers | Hardcover

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein, HarperCollins Publishers | Hardcover

A classic. It centers around the joy of giving–and not receiving. This would make a perfect gift for Christmas or any time of the year, especially with a handwritten note inside.
Price: $11.64
Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney, Candlewick Press | Hardcover, Audiobook, Board Book, Other Format

Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney, Candlewick Press | Hardcover, Audiobook, Board Book, Other Format

This classic would make a perfect gift for expecting or new parents. Our nursery was even centered around this book with framed pictures of some illustrations. Just a beautiful book about the love between a parent and a child.
Price: $10.61
Corduroy Book and Bear by Don Freeman, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Hardcover

Corduroy Book and Bear by Don Freeman, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Hardcover

This is a story all children will love. This particular book comes with the bear, too. A sweet gift for any child.
Price: $12.89
If I Could Keep You Little... by Marianne Richmond, Sourcebooks, Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover, Board Book

If I Could Keep You Little… by Marianne Richmond, Sourcebooks, Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover, Board Book

We gave our daughter this book when she turned five with a note tucked inside. She loves to have us read this to her. It touches on how it’s hard for a parent to see their child growing up so quickly. But if your parent could keep you little, they’d miss out on seeing all that is to come. I love this sweet book!
Price: $11.38
The Little Engine That Could: Reillustrated Edition by Watty Piper, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Board Book, Other Format

The Little Engine That Could: Reillustrated Edition by Watty Piper, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Board Book, Other Format

What a wonderful, classic story for every child to have! With interesting illustrations and an inspiring message to always believe in yourself, this would make a wonderful gift any time of the year.
Price: $14.50
I Knew You Could!: A Book for All the Stops in Your Life by Craig Dorfman, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Hardcover

I Knew You Could!: A Book for All the Stops in Your Life by Craig Dorfman, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Hardcover

A book from “The Little Engine That Could” series, this is my favorite book to give when someone is starting a new adventure. Each of my girls received this from us with a note inside on her first birthday. It would also be great for a child starting kindergarten, or even a sweet graduation keepsake. It encourages you to “slow down today to be happy tomorrow” and trust in yourself throughout life.
Price: $7.49
Oh, the Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss, Random House Children's Books | Hardcover, Audiobook

Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss, Random House Children’s Books | Hardcover, Audiobook

This is another great gift to give someone starting a new stage in life. Write a heartfelt note inside and you’ve given that person a book to treasure for a lifetime!
Price: $10.58
Someday by Alison McGhee, Atheneum Books for Young Readers | Hardcover

Someday by Alison McGhee, Atheneum Books for Young Readers | Hardcover

This book is amazing for a mother to give to her daughter, even as early as her first birthday. It talks about things that will happen “someday” as your mother watches you grow. It ends with, “Someday, a long time from now, your own hair will glow silver in the sun… and you will remember me.” I could cry just thinking about it. I love this book! I plan to give it to each of my girls someday with a handwritten note inside.
Price: $9.99
My Book about Me by Dr. Seuss, Random House Children's Books | Hardcover

My Book about Me by Dr. Seuss, Random House Children’s Books | Hardcover

My brother still has this book that he filled out as a child (I wish I had one!) I give this book often as a gift. It would be great for a child ages 7-10 or so. They get to fill in all kinds of information about themselves–a precious keepsake!
Price: $9.10

 

Little Passports

AGES 4-8: MEANINGFUL

Orange Shoes by Trinka Hakes Noble, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

Orange Shoes by Trinka Hakes Noble, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

OUR ABSOLUTE FAVORITE!!! I get choked up every time I read it, and the girls hang on every word. If you buy one book for your child this year (especially girls ages 4-8), this is the one!!
Price: $12.90
A Book for Black-Eyed Susan by Judy Young, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

A Book for Black-Eyed Susan by Judy Young, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

A touching story (like “The Orange Shoes” above), this book will melt your heart. I read it with a lump in my throat every time. A wonderful book for children ages 4-9 or so. It’s historical fiction (which I love), so children will get a sense of frontier life as well.
Price: $13.07
The Children's Book of Virtues by William J. Bennett, Simon & Schuster | Hardcover, Audiobook

The Children’s Book of Virtues by William J. Bennett, Simon & Schuster | Hardcover, Audiobook

This is an absolutely wonderful book with great lessons. Children ages 4 & up would listen intently to these stories.
Price: $18.46
The Children's Book of Heroes by William J. Bennett, Simon & Schuster | Hardcover, Audiobook

The Children’s Book of Heroes by William J. Bennett, Simon & Schuster | Hardcover, Audiobook

Like “The Children’s Book of Virtues” (above), this book is awesome with great lessons and stories. Any child ages 4 & up would love it.
Price: $22.42
Willow by Denise Brennan-Nelson, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

Willow by Denise Brennan-Nelson, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

This is a perfect book for a child who loves art. It’s about a little girl who loves to express herself through her art in a unique way. The book emphasizes embracing your creativity.
Price: $13.94
The Listeners by Gloria Whelan, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

The Listeners by Gloria Whelan, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

This book describes how young slave children were asked by their parents to sneak up to the main house and listen to their master’s conversations so they knew if family members were to be sold. It ends when the children hear that Abraham Lincoln says they will be free. This is a wonderful book that helps children start to understand that time in history.
Price: $13.66
Flicka, Ricka, Dicka and the Strawberries by Maj Lindman, Whitman, Albert & Company | Paperback, Hardcover

Flicka, Ricka, Dicka and the Strawberries by Maj Lindman, Whitman, Albert & Company | Paperback, Hardcover

This book is about three sisters, so any family with three girls would love it just for that! These little girls show great kindness and selflessness by giving instead of receiving. A very sweet message. All of the Flicka, Ricka, Dicka books are kind like this…
Price: $6.50
BARNES & NOBLE | I'm Gonna Like Me: Letting Off a Little Self-Esteem by Jamie Lee Curtis, HarperCollins Publishers | Hardcover, Audiobook

BARNES & NOBLE | I’m Gonna Like Me: Letting Off a Little Self-Esteem by Jamie Lee Curtis, HarperCollins Publishers | Hardcover, Audiobook

This is a fun book that encourages children to love themselves for who they are. In today’s day and age where there are never-ending pressures to measure up, I love how this book sends a message to children to simply be happy with themselves and embrace their uniqueness.
Price: $10.61
BARNES & NOBLE | Franklins School Treasury by Paulette Bourgeois, Kids Can Press, Limited | Hardcover

BARNES & NOBLE | Franklins School Treasury by Paulette Bourgeois, Kids Can Press, Limited | Hardcover

The Franklin stories are all wonderful. We have all the Treasury books. Each story has a nice message. Any of the Treasury books would make a great gift–this one with stories about school would be perfect for a child starting kindergarten!
Price: $12.37
Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

We love this classic! For any family who holds Boston dear to their hearts or otherwise, this is a great book.
Price: $11.86
You're All My Favorites with Audio by Sam McBratney, Candlewick Press | Paperback

You’re All My Favorites with Audio by Sam McBratney, Candlewick Press | Paperback

Written by the author of “Guess How Much I Love You”, this is a great book for any family about how parents love their children equally. In the story, there are three bears, so I especially love to give this book as a gift when a family has a third baby. The older children love feeling included when their new sibling is getting all the attention, and it’s a great story to remind them that they are loved just as much as the new baby in their family. (*This version also includes a DVD and stickers, mostly because I was having trouble finding the book on its own for some reason!)
Price: $9.29

 

The Santa Video

AGES 4-8: FUN TO READ AND/OR HUMOROUS

Bob Books Set #1: Beginning Readers (Bob Books Series) by Scholastic, Inc., Bobby Maslen, John Maslen

Bob Books Set #1: Beginning Readers (Bob Books Series) by Scholastic, Inc., Bobby Maslen, John Maslen

BOB books are the best for kids learning to read!!! If your child knows the sounds each letter can make, he/she can start trying to read these books! We have all 5 sets. I can’t recommend them enough!! The best learn-to-read books I’ve found. Our girls were so proud when they could read their first book! :)
Price: $15.29
Betty Bunny Loves Chocolate Cake by Michael B. Kaplan, Live Oak Media | Hardcover

Betty Bunny Loves Chocolate Cake by Michael B. Kaplan, Live Oak Media | Hardcover

This book is hilarious. We absolutely love it. This is our go-to gift when our third daughter (age 5) attends birthday parties.
Price: $26.95
Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover

Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover

Another funny book. Love the cadence–this is fun to read. I am very animated when I read (understatement), and my girls love to act out what’s happening in the story. This is another go-to gift that we frequently give.
Price: $14.98
Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson, Margaret K. McElderry Books | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Board Book

Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson, Margaret K. McElderry Books | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Board Book

This book has great rhythm–it’s enjoyable to read. When it’s up to me to choose the book, I often pick this one! :) A cute story. All the “Bear” books by Karma Wilson are favorites of ours.
Price: $10.61
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr., Beach Lane Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Board Book, Other Format

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr., Beach Lane Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Board Book, Other Format

This is so catchy. Adults and children will both be chanting the words! A fun read.
Price: $7.99
A Treasury of Curious George by H. A. Rey, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover

A Treasury of Curious George by H. A. Rey, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover

All children love the adventures of Curious George! This compilation of stories would make a great gift for any little boy or girl.
Price: $10.11
Who Stole the Cookie from the Cookie Jar? by Margaret Wang, Dalmatian Publishing Group | Hardcover

Who Stole the Cookie from the Cookie Jar? by Margaret Wang, Dalmatian Publishing Group | Hardcover

This book is fun for all young kids under the age of 7 I’d say. The cookies have some texture they enjoy touching, and the story is funny. The words are catchy and before long, your child will probably be saying it along with you!
Price: $7.19
Maestro Stu Saves the Zoo by Denise Brennah-Nelson, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

Maestro Stu Saves the Zoo by Denise Brennah-Nelson, Sleeping Bear Press | Hardcover

A new book just out this fall, this story is told completely in idioms. Kids ages 6-8 or so will really love this book about Stu and the animals at the zoo.
Price: $13.69
Fancy Nancy by Jane O'Connor, HarperCollins Publishers | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Fancy Nancy by Jane O’Connor, HarperCollins Publishers | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Little girls love this book! It’s got great illustrating, and I love that the kids learn “fancy” words, so it improves their vocabulary, too. All of the “Fancy Nancy” books are great, but this one is our favorite.
Price: $13.98
Pinkalicious by Victoria Kann, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Pinkalicious by Victoria Kann, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This is another book little girls would love. A cute story with fun illustrations. The entire series has great books.
Price: $12.22
Sylvester and the Magic Pebble by William Steig, Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Sylvester and the Magic Pebble by William Steig, Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This is a story your children will want you to read again and again. A modern classic.
Price: $14.50
Cars and Trucks and Things That Go by Richard Scarry, Random House Children's Books | Hardcover

Cars and Trucks and Things That Go by Richard Scarry, Random House Children’s Books | Hardcover

Little boys in particular love this book with its fun pictures.
Price: $9.36

 

Shop for the best toys for the holidays at Magic Beans

AGES 5-11: CHAPTER BOOKS

Amelia Bedelia: 40th Anniversary Collection: Amelia Bedelia, Amelia Bedelia and the Surprise Shower, Play Ball Amelia Bedelia(I Can Read Books Series) by Peggy Parish, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Amelia Bedelia: 40th Anniversary Collection: Amelia Bedelia, Amelia Bedelia and the Surprise Shower, Play Ball Amelia Bedelia(I Can Read Books Series) by Peggy Parish, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Kids think these books are absolutely hilarious!! Children ages 4-7 or so will laugh and laugh as Amelia constantly gets things confused. Very entertaining books–and great for kids to start reading to themselves, too, as their skills improve. These books have “chapters”, but they also have pictures. A good first “chapter book” for kids.
Price: $6.73
Magic Tree House Boxed Set: Books 1 - 4 (Magic Tree House Series) by Mary Pope Osborne, Random House Children's Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback

Magic Tree House Boxed Set: Books 1 – 4 (Magic Tree House Series) by Mary Pope Osborne, Random House Children’s Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback

This is an awesome series. Two children go on wild adventures back in time that involve real historical events. Amazing concept. This link takes you to books 1-4 if you want to see how your child likes the books–you can also buy the boxed set of books 1-28. We have the entire series, and our girls love them all! Each book centers around a different period or event in history. Our girls read these at about age 6 or 7–but again, it may depend on your child’s reading level. Kids as young as age 4 would enjoy having these read aloud to them.
Price: $11.67
The Fenway Foul-up (Ballpark Mysteries Series #1) by David A. Kelly, Random House Children's Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover

The Fenway Foul-up (Ballpark Mysteries Series #1) by David A. Kelly, Random House Children’s Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover

This is the first book of a series. Little boys in particular would love these books. Each mystery takes place in a different American ballpark.
Price: $5.39
Diary of a Wimpy Kid Box of Books 1-3 by Jeff Kinney, Abrams, Harry N., Inc. | Hardcover

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Box of Books 1-3 by Jeff Kinney, Abrams, Harry N., Inc. | Hardcover

These are fun books. Kids (especially boys, in my opinion) love these. My nephews couldn’t put them down. They read them around age 7, but kids from 6-9 or so would really enjoy these books.
Price: $24.28
Big Nate 1-2 Punch: 2 Big Nate Books in 1 Box! by Lincoln Peirce, HarperCollins Publishers | Hardcover

Big Nate 1-2 Punch: 2 Big Nate Books in 1 Box! by Lincoln Peirce, HarperCollins Publishers | Hardcover

The boys I know love these books! A great gift for boys ages 6-9 or so.
Price: $10.98
The Way of the Samurai (Geronimo Stilton Series #49) by Geronimo Stilton, Scholastic, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover

The Way of the Samurai (Geronimo Stilton Series #49) by Geronimo Stilton, Scholastic, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover

This is just one of many Geronimo Stilton books. My girls loved these books around 2nd-3rd grade. They were constantly checking them out at the school library. Fun books for kids ages 6-9 or so.
Price: $6.99
Judy Blume's Fudge Box Set by Judy Blume, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Other Format

Judy Blume’s Fudge Box Set by Judy Blume, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Other Format

These are timeless books that every kid would love. I would say they are good for ages 8-10 or so (3rd-5th grades). My oldest daughter received this set as a gift when she was 8 and absolutely loved all the books!
Price: $26.95
James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

My girls love this book!! They first heard the story when their kindergarten teacher read it aloud to their class. You can’t go wrong with a book by Roald Dahl.
Price: $6.99
The BFG by Roald Dahl, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Multimedia, Other Format

The BFG by Roald Dahl, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Multimedia, Other Format

This is another favorite among our girls. Aimed more toward children ages 7-11 or so if they read it independently, you could also read this aloud to your child much sooner. They will love it!
Price: $6.78
Charlotte's Web by E. B. White, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

This classic story would make a great gift for any child who is beginning to be more comfortable with reading.
Price: $7.75
The Maze of Bones (The 39 Clues Series #1) by Rick Riordan, Scholastic, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover, Audiobook

The Maze of Bones (The 39 Clues Series #1) by Rick Riordan, Scholastic, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover, Audiobook

This is the first book of many in this series. My oldest daughter and her friends (especially the boys) were really into these books around age 9 or so. They all had them in their hands constantly!
Price: $8.39
Harry Potter Paperback Boxed Set, Books 1-7 by J. K. Rowling, Scholastic, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover, Other Format

Harry Potter Paperback Boxed Set, Books 1-7 by J. K. Rowling, Scholastic, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Hardcover, Other Format

Here’s a shocker: kids love the Harry Potter series! Depending on your child’s reading level, he/she could start this series as early as age 7 or 8 (advanced readers), and they are great for any age thereafter. Our oldest daughter couldn’t read these books fast enough, and she honestly didn’t know what to do with herself once she had completed all seven books! Now our second daughter is whipping through them, and she loves the series just as much. Highly recommend these!
Price: $78.23
Warriors Box Set: Volumes 1 to 6 by Erin Hunter, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback

Warriors Box Set: Volumes 1 to 6 by Erin Hunter, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback

If your child enjoys fantasy, they will love these! A wonderful series for boys and girls. Targeted at ages 9-11 or so.
Price: $21.97
Gregor the Overlander (Underland Chronicles Series #1) by Suzanne Collins, Scholastic, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Gregor the Overlander (Underland Chronicles Series #1) by Suzanne Collins, Scholastic, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This is the first of a series written by the same author of The Hunger Games, but I’d say that it’s written more for the younger reader. Our oldest daughter (age 10) read the entire series and absolutely loved it. Many of her friends are reading it now.
Price: $6.78
The Giver by Lois Lowry, Random House Children's Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

The Giver by Lois Lowry, Random House Children’s Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

This award-winning book is the first in a series. It’s similar to the Hunger Games in some ways, yet there is no fighting to the death. When a child is 12, they receive their life assignment from the Elders. My oldest daughter really enjoyed the entire series.
Price: $6.78
Philippa Fisher's Fairy Godsister (Philippa Fisher Series #1) by Liz Kessler, Candlewick Press | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

Philippa Fisher’s Fairy Godsister (Philippa Fisher Series #1) by Liz Kessler, Candlewick Press | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

The first book in a series targeted for young girls. Great for ages 8-12 or so.  My daughters loved this series!
Price: $6.99
Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper, Atheneum Books for Young Readers | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover

Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper, Atheneum Books for Young Readers | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover

My niece’s very favorite book and all her friends have loved it, too. She read it around age 10, and then she gave it to my daughter for Christmas.  My two oldest (ages 10 and 8) have now read it.  They said it’s right up there with Harry Potter!!  Highly recommend this moving story…
Price: $6.99

 

12 & UP

The Hunger Games Trilogy Boxed Set by Suzanne Collins, Scholastic, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Other Format

The Hunger Games Trilogy Boxed Set by Suzanne Collins, Scholastic, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Other Format

While I didn’t think my 9-year-old was quite ready for these, my husband and I couldn’t read them fast enough! I was originally opposed to reading these books because I thought the plot was so disturbing, but when I finally caved, I thoroughly enjoyed the series–especially the first two books.  Update: we did let our daughter read the series when she was just shy of 11.  She really loved it, and she’s the type who tends to scare easily.  Some parts are definitely a bit disturbing, but she seemed to do fine–we kept telling her to stop reading if the story was bothering her.  (I wouldn’t let her see the movie, though.  I don’t think she can conjure up the images in her own mind the way the stories are portrayed on a movie screen.)
Price: $48.57
Uglies: Uglies; Pretties; Specials; Extras by Scott Westerfeld, Simon Pulse | Paperback

Uglies: Uglies; Pretties; Specials; Extras by Scott Westerfeld, Simon Pulse | Paperback

While my own daughters aren’t quite old enough for this set of books, I have heard great things about these. My friends with older girls have highly recommended this series.
Price: $21.97
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover

Non-fiction. Anne Frank’s diary describes her experiences as a young girl while her family was hiding for two years, fleeing the horrors of Nazi occupation. A wonderful book for any young girl, 12+.
Price: $5.99
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares, Random House Children's Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares, Random House Children’s Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

The girls I know 12+ have loved this book (and series). It seems to be unanimous among their crowd that this book is worth reading!
Price: $9.99
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, Random House Children's Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, Random House Children’s Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

This book set in Germany in World War II will be a favorite for any reader ages 12 and up.
Price: $10.98
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Grand Central Publishing | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Grand Central Publishing | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

This classic is a must-read at some point in your life!
Price: $7.67
A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving, HarperCollins Publishers | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving, HarperCollins Publishers | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

This is the story of what happens after 11-year-old Owen Meany hits a foul ball and kills his friend’s mother in a Little League baseball game. An extraordinary book.
Price: $8.59
Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell, Scribner | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell, Scribner | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

One of the most popular books of all time. A must-read at some point in your life! I read this in middle school, and I remember reading into the wee hours of the night and then picking the book up again the moment I awoke. An awesome gift for anyone, especially the women in your life!
Price: $16.26

ADULT FICTION

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This book is absolutely incredible. I can’t recommend it enough. One of my favorite books of all time–it made me cry more than once, and it made me think about life so differently. My husband and I both loved this book.
Price: $13.98
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

This book follows Kite Runner (above). It’s hard to decide which one I like more. Both books are awesome. Any avid reader would LOVE both books–great for men and women.
Price: $13.98
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium Trilogy Series #1) by Stieg Larsson, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium Trilogy Series #1) by Stieg Larsson, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

The first in the trilogy, these books were all the rage not too long ago. My husband and I both whipped through them. Good reads for a vacation.
Price: $10.98
Missing Links by Rick Reilly, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Missing Links by Rick Reilly, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This would make the perfect gift for the golf-loving man in your life! My husband says this book is absolutely hysterical. A funny, easy read.
Price: $14.49
The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

It’s been a long time since I’ve read this great book, but I remember it being a favorite! Men and women would both enjoy this book.
Price: $7.99
The Lords of Discipline by Pat Conroy, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

The Lords of Discipline by Pat Conroy, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

Written by the same author who wrote “Prince of Tides” (above), this is another awesome book. Men and women will both like it.
Price: $11.20
Angels and Demons by Dan Brown, Pocket Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Angels and Demons by Dan Brown, Pocket Books | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

The sequel to “The DaVinci Code”, this book is even better than the first in my opinion! Guys will love this book, too.
Price: $9.99
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier, HarperCollins Publishers | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Sorry for the poor image–I could NOT get it to link up for the life of me! But that doesn’t mean I don’t LOVE this book. If someone asked me to name my favorite book of all time off the top of my head, I would choose this one. I read it back in high school, and I remember thinking it was incredible. In fact, I think it’s time I read this one again! :)
Price: $7.67
The Help by Kathryn Stockett, Penguin Group (USA) | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

The Help by Kathryn Stockett, Penguin Group (USA) | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

Sorry for the poor image–I could NOT get this one to link up either–ugh! This book is awesome! I went to bed at 4 am one night because I wanted to finish it. (not smart when you have four kids–I wasn’t my best mommy self the next day, I’m sure!) This is such a great book–love it!
Price: $13.98
The Tea Rose by Jennifer Donnelly, St. Martin's Press | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover

The Tea Rose by Jennifer Donnelly, St. Martin’s Press | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover

This is the first of three books. My sister-in-law (an avid reader) says this is quite possibly her favorite book. The entire series is worthwhile.
Price: $13.98
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This is an amazing book that was all the rage some years back. If you never read it, it’s worth your time!!
Price: $11.07
People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

While I can’t speak of this book personally, my mom and her friends all agree that this is definitely a book worth reading! A favorite for all of them.
Price: $13.98
Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner, Washington Square Press | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner, Washington Square Press | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

I couldn’t get the darn image to come up with this one either–sorry! This is a great “beach read” book. Nothing heavy. I love Jennifer Weiner’s books when I’m in the mood for some “chick lit”… her books are all quick reads.
Price: $13.98
Beneath a Marble Sky by John Shors, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Paperback, Hardcover

Beneath a Marble Sky by John Shors, Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated | Paperback, Hardcover

This is a book on my own must-read list. My reliable sources tell me this one is awesome.
Price: $10.13
Red Tent (10th Anniversary Edition) by Anita Diamant, Picador | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Red Tent (10th Anniversary Edition) by Anita Diamant, Picador | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This book remains to be one of my all-time favorites. It really takes you back in time.
Price: $10.98
Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay, St. Martin's Press | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay, St. Martin’s Press | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

I have had this book sitting next to my bed for weeks, just waiting for me to dive into it! So many of my friends and family have recommended it as a “must-read”–so it must be good!
Price: $12.98

 

ADULT NON-FICTION

Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

A story of triumph: Seabiscuit, a rags-to-riches horse, received more news coverage in 1938 than FDR or Hitler. An inspiring read.
Price: $12.98
Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mount Everest Disaster by Jon Krakauer, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mount Everest Disaster by Jon Krakauer, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

I read this book years ago, and I absolutely loved it. A quick read. The author gives his personal account of climbing Mount Everest when a storm blew in.
Price: $12.99
Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell, Little, Brown & Company | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell, Little, Brown & Company | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This is very intriguing. It really changed the way I view certain things. It looks at how circumstances play a large roll in success.
Price: $10.98
Blink: The Power of Thinking without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell, Little, Brown & Company | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Blink: The Power of Thinking without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell, Little, Brown & Company | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This book looks at how we make decisions, and why some people are better at it than others. An interesting read. Written by the same author who wrote “Outliers” (above),
Price: $10.98
Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin, Simon & Schuster | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin, Simon & Schuster | Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This is an incredible book for anyone who loves history. With the movie “Lincoln” recently out, it would make a great gift for a history buff before going to see the movie. My husband (a history major at Harvard) says this is his all-time-favorite history book.
Price: $11.93
Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer by James L. Swanson, HarperCollins Publishers | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln’s Killer by James L. Swanson, HarperCollins Publishers | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This book, detailing the hunt for Abraham Lincoln’s killer, reads like a novel. You don’t have to be a history buff to love this book.
Price: $11.98
The Greatest Generation by Tom Brokaw, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

The Greatest Generation by Tom Brokaw, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook, Other Format

Tom Brokaw interviews men and women who came of age during the Great Depression and World War II.
Price: $14.98
Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game by Michael Lewis, Norton, W. W. & Company, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game by Michael Lewis, Norton, W. W. & Company, Inc. | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Another great book, especially for men. Tells the story of how the Oakland Athletics used statistical models to build a winning team.
Price: $10.98
Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali, Free Press | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali, Free Press | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This is an amazing book. It will change the way you think about so many things in your life.
Price: $13.98
Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand, Random House Publishing Group | NOOK Book (eBook), Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook

This is my mom’s all-time favorite non-fiction book–and she reads more than anyone I know. She says this is amazing–and many others have recommended it as well. It’s the story of a young lieutenant surviving a plane crash and his struggle to stay alive. I need to put this on my own Christmas list this year!
Price: $15.40

 

 

I hope these 100 books have helped you check a few gifts off your list this holiday season!  Perhaps this post will serve as a good tool of reference for you all year long as well.

Please feel free to leave the names of other books you love in the comment section below.  I’m sure other readers would appreciate even more ideas.  Thanks everybody!

Happy Holidays!

HH Signature Thanks

 

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