What are the best books to give as Christmas presents?

The best book to give at Christmas is one the receiver will like. There is no other criteria than that. It doesn't matter what the book is about.

by Bryony Harrison

That's exactly what I was going to say! I've given a wide variety of books over the years, to a wide variety of recipients, but all chosen for that individual.

I like to give people books that I know they haven't read, will not pick up themselves, but I am sure they will absolutely love. For example, my sister-in-law only likes her books in matching hardcover sets. During the year, she went on a trip to France, and is also a fan of classic books and authors. So for Christmas I bought her a hardcover set of French travel memoirs by classic authors.

Obviously, you can only do this with people you know really well, but it is really satisfying when you know you've gotten it just right.

by Kerri

It all depends on the recipient. I've noticed that children's tastes in literature have changed over the years. Grandparents have to be very careful that they do not gift a book that they enjoyed as a child if it is still in print. The givers could end up as disappointed as the recipients.

by grann

Some of the oldies (like The Happy Man and His Dump Truck) are still great.

Ah, The Happy Man and His Dump Truck. It's up there with The Little Eskimo. The latter is probaly now totally politically incorrect, but my grand daughter just loves it. Nothing wrong with a good old Golden Book. I can remember climbing up into Mum and Dad's present cache to see if I was going to get Doctor Dan the Bandage Man with its supply of bandaids on the inside cover. Some memories don't fade even after 60 years.

When I was sixteen I was given the first five part to Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series for Christmas. I've always loved the Wheel of Time and I wouldn't hesitate for a second to give copies as Christmas gifts.

by DamienR