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The best book gifts for Christmas 2023

 

 

The best book gifts for Christmas 2023Welcome to our guide to the best book gifts available from your local bookshop this autumn and winter, from fantastic fiction to dazzling non-fiction, plus brilliant books for younger readers. All the books recommended below are taken from Christmas Books, a gift guide available exclusively from independent booksellers. Use our stockist search to find your nearest bookshop and find a gift to delight any booklover this Christmas.

Browse the full list below, or pick a category to get started.

Christmas Books

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Fiction

Biography and Memoir

Picture books and young readers aged 3-8

Children's fiction and non-fiction for ages 9-12

Young adult fiction and non-fiction

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Fiction

 

 

 

The Future by Naomi Alderman

The Future by Naomi Alderman

An extraordinary page-turning speculative novel and a dazzling literary exploration of how we live now and where the world is going, from the award-winning author of The Power and Disobedience.

The Armour of Light by Ken Follett

The Armour of Light by Ken Follett

Ken Follett returns to Kingsbridge with an epic tale of revolution and a cast of unforgettable characters, in this fifth novel in the series. Set in 1792, as Napoleon rises to power, it sees Kingsbridge residents fight for freedom.

The Christmas Appeal by Janice Hallett

The Christmas Appeal by Janice Hallett

The Appeal’s original cast of amateur dramatic enthusiasts return to rehearse a pantomime – only to be interrupted by a mysterious death. Will the lawyers – or the reader – find out whodunnit… and will the show go on?

Red Dust, White Snow by Pan Huiting

Red Dust, White Snow by Pan Huiting

An office worker receives a device which transports her to a fantastical dreamworld which she soon finds herself visiting again and again. But the fantasy starts to encroach on her waking life, with drastic consequences.

No Funeral for Nazia by Taha Kehar

No Funeral for Nazia by Taha Kehar

Six guests gather following the death of celebrated author, Nazia Sami, who spent her final days writing each of them a letter. As the evening unfolds, so are secrets revealed, pasts reconsidered, and lives forever changed.

Mrs Sidhu's Dead and Scone by Suk Pannu

Mrs Sidhu's Dead and Scone by Suk Pannu

A culinary cosy crime mystery from the creator of TV series 'Mrs Sidhu Investigates'. Mrs. Sidhu – unofficial Aunty to everyone, caterer, and amateur sleuth from Slough –spices up the lives of Berkshire's elite with both her mouth-watering dishes and her sharp detective skills. When a therapist is found dead in a quiet village, Mrs Sidhu’s appetite for mystery is rekindled.

Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

It’s spring and, during lockdown on her cherry orchard, Lara tells her three grown-up daughters all about the time she dated Peter Duke, a famous movie star. A moving novel about love, family and revisiting the past.

Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa

Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa

Takako has never liked reading, despite her family’s generations-old Morisaki bookshop, which is the pride and joy of her uncle, Satoru. When she moves into the room above the shop following a heartbreak, she starts to discover new worlds among the stacks of books, and more in common with her uncle than she first thought.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Biography and memoir

 

 

 

Have a Little Faith by Kate Bottley

Have a Little Faith by Kate Bottley

Everyone’s favourite vicar shares her thoughts on faith, in all its shapes and sizes, and how it can help us to navigate the ups and downs of life. No matter what we think about religion, Kate believes we should grasp the parts of faith that bring us comfort, whether it’s singing hymns at Christmas or believing in the goodness of humanity.

Walk Yourself Happy by Julia Bradbury

Walk Yourself Happy by Julia Bradbury

Combining science-based information, practical tips and her own experience, presenter Julia Bradbury explores the power of nature to soothe anxiety and stress, and help us eat and sleep better – and the simple but powerful role that walking plays in connecting us with the natural world.

Berserker! by Adrian Edmonson

Berserker! by Adrian Edmonson

This is the tale of a child brought up in a strict Methodist household and repressive boarding schools who subsequently, with Rik Mayall, brought anarchy to both stage and screen. Could it be his Norse heritage? This unique memoir is full of all the wry humour and star-studded anecdotes we’d expect from someone with four decades of comedy brilliance behind them.

Christmas on the Farm by Adam Henson

Christmas on the Farm by Adam Henson

From Countryfile presenter Adam Henson comes lots of festive fun at the farm. Hear the tales, uplifting and full of Christmas spirit, that have defined festivity for the Henson family.

TV by Peter Kay

TV by Peter Kay

A hilarious and nostalgic collection of TV memories and adventures from comedy national treasure, he of ‘(Is This the Way to) Amarillo’ fame and star of possibly the worst Doctor Who episode of all time. A riotous good time for telly addicts everywhere!

Everything is Everything by Clive Myrie

Everything is Everything by Clive Myrie

A memoir from the BBC journalist and broadcaster Clive Myrie, in which he reflects on how being Black has affected his perspective on the myriad issues he’s encountered in reporting some of the biggest stories of our time.

How to Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair

How to Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair

Fans of Tara Westover’s Educated will enjoy this astonishing and searing story of the author’s struggle to break free of her rigid Rastafarian upbringing and live life on her own terms. This inspiring memoir by award-winning poet Safiya Sinclair is about family, education and resilience – and the power of words to save. /span>

My Name is Barbra by Barbra Streisand

My Name is Barbra by Barbra Streisand

The legendary Barbra Streisand tells her own story about her life and extraordinary career, from growing up in Brooklyn, to her breakout performance in Funny Girl, to the long string of successes in every medium in the years that followed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Picture books and younger readers aged 3-8

 

 

 

Luna Loves Christmas by Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Fiona Lumbers

Luna Loves Christmas by Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Fiona Lumbers

Luna discovers the power of giving in her fourth adventure by Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho. This Christmas, Luna’s family are volunteering, and Luna can’t wait for them to all be together!

For ages 3+

D is for Dog by Em Lynas, illustrated by Sara Ogilvie

D is for Dog by Em Lynas, illustrated by Sara Ogilvie

This hilarious alphabet celebration of canine capers is perfect for dog lovers young and old. Featuring stylish and vibrant artwork by the award-winning Sara Ogilvie, it’s full of fun depictions of all kinds of dogs.

For ages 3+

Kid Christmas by David Litchfield

Kid Christmas by David Litchfield

This charming illustrated tale is a true festive treat. Little Nicky Claus works with his three uncles in the Claus Brothers Toy Emporium, but when he discovers that there are children who can’t afford toys, he sets out to make sure that for one night only, every child gets the toy of their dreams.

For ages 4+

The Girl Who Became a Fish by Polly Ho-Yen, illustrated by Sojung Kim-McCarthy

The Girl Who Became a Fish by Polly Ho-Yen, illustrated by Sojung Kim-McCarthy

Ita is afraid of lots of things, from talking to her new classmates to walking through her new town – and most of all, she’s afraid of water. But she’s forced to confront her fears – and perhaps bring her family together again – when the local river turns her into a fish. A heartwarming early reader which helps younger readers deal with the themes of home, change and fear.

For ages 5+

The Star Whale by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Petr Horacek

The Star Whale by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Petr Horacek

Discover a pangolin at dusk, fly on the bat’s back, visit a lion and hear about his plight! These beautiful poems by Nicola Davies are perfectly melded with Petr Horácek’s gorgeous, glowing paintings.

For ages 6+

Weird and Wonderful Nature by Ben Hoare

Weird and Wonderful Nature by Ben Hoare

Why do Mexican jumping beans jump? How do sea cucumbers defend themselves? What causes the northern lights? This compendium of more than 100 of the most astonishing plants, animals, rocks, and phenomena in nature will satisfy curious young minds, while the gold foil cover and gorgeous illustrations make it a wonderful gift.

For ages 6+

Enchanted Tales by Laura Sampson, illustrated by Phung Nguyen Quang & Huynh Thi Kim Lien

Enchanted Tales by Laura Sampson, illustrated by Phung Nguyen Quang & Huynh Thi Kim Lien

This treasury of enchanted tales from all over the world, retold by storyteller and vocal performer Laura Sampson, positively shimmers with magic. With beautifully detailed artwork by Taiwanese illustrators Phung Nguyen Quang and Huynh Thi Kim Lien, it’s the perfect festive gift which young readers will treasure forever.

For ages 6+

The Council of Good Friends by Nikesh Shukla, illustrated by Rochelle Falconer

The Council of Good Friends by Nikesh Shukla, illustrated by Rochelle Falconer

Vinay, Musa, Inua and Nish are best friends. Nothing can separate them... until one day when Vinay's cousin comes to invade his bunk bed haven (i.e. share his room). When a prank war starts, can the friends remember what really matters? This laugh-out-loud tale is full of hilarity as well as moments of kindness – guaranteed to entertain young independent readers.

For ages 6+

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Children's fiction and non-fiction for ages 9-12

 

 

 

Finding Bear by Hannah Gold

Finding Bear by Hannah Gold, illustrated by Levi Pinfold

The sequel to Waterstones Children’s Book Prize winner The Last Bear. April Wood is back from her adventure to Bear Island, but she can’t stop thinking about Bear. When she hears that a polar bear has been shot and injured, she persuades her dad to return to the Arctic with her to find her friend. A thrilling story of survival and hope which will captivate confident readers.

For ages 8+

What’s the Big Idea? by Tracey Turner, illustrated by Tequitia Andrews

What’s the Big Idea? by Tracey Turner, illustrated by Tequitia Andrews

An ideal gift for inquisitive children, this collection of bite-sized information and eye-catching illustrations brings to life crucial concepts in an age-appropriate way. From capitalism to feminism, ecology to epidemiology, this book brings together more than 100 big words and ideas, simply explained.

For ages 8+

Brilliant Black British History by Atinuke, illustrated by Kingsley Nebechi

Brilliant Black British History by Atinuke, illustrated by Kingsley Nebechi

This eye-opening story of Britain focuses on a part of our past that has mostly been left out of the history books: the brilliant Black history of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Vividly illustrated and comprehensively detailed, it will make a fascinating and entertaining gift for curious older readers.

For ages 9+

The Marvellers: The Memory Thieves by Dhonielle Clayton

The Marvellers: The Memory Thieves by Dhonielle Clayton

The sequel to The Marvellers. In this fantasy adventure set in a global magic school in the sky, Ella, Jason, and Brigit return for their second year at the Arcanum Training Institute for Marvelous and Uncanny Endeavors.

For ages 9+

Adia Kelbara and the Circle of Shamans by Isi Hendrix

Adia Kelbara and the Circle of Shamans by Isi Hendrix

An action-packed new fantasy series. 12-year-old Adia’s aunt and uncle believe she is an ogbanje, a demon-possessed child. When she accidentally destroys her village, she starts to think they might be right…

For ages 9+

The Silver Road by Sinéad O’Hart

The Silver Road by Sinéad O’Hart

The seandraiocht - the Old Magic - isn't remembered like it once was. Its power is fading... Rose is entrusted with a powerful stone by a Frost Giant, and through it discovers the Silver Road; the thread of magic which runs beneath the land. But with the Silver Road under threat, Rose must find its rightful owner to keep the magic alive. Drawing on Irish folklore, this is a stunning new fantasy for children.

For ages 9+

Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell, illustrated by Tomislav Tomic

Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell, illustrated by Tomislav Tomic

The first instalment of an immersive new fantasy epic by the bestselling author of The Explorer. Christopher discovers that his grandfather is the guardian of one of the ways into a magical world called the Archipelago, where mythical creatures thrive alongside humans. Soon, he finds himself on an urgent quest with a flying girl and a griffin.

For ages 9+

Return of the Wild by Helen Scales, illustrated by Good Wives and Warriors

Return of the Wild by Helen Scales, illustrated by Good Wives and Warriors

An illustrated collection of hopeful stories exploring the recovery of nature in the face of extinction and environmental challenges. It teaches children about the different habitats of plants and animals.

For ages 9+

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Young adult fiction and non-fiction

 

 

 

I Loved You in Another Life by David Arnold

I Loved You in Another Life by David Arnold

A sweeping romantic novel exploring the history of love, and how some souls are meant for each other – yesterday, today, forever – from the bestselling author of Mosquitoland.

For ages 12+

Live Like a Goddess by Jean Menzies

Live Like a Goddess by Jean Menzies

The perfect gift for the young goddess in your life – inspire them to live a life of courage and confidence, inspired by goddess myths from around the world and the modern life lessons of these legendary ladies.

For ages 12+

What You Need to Be Warm by Neil Gaiman

What You Need to Be Warm by Neil Gaiman

A powerful new poem from Neil Gaiman, illustrated by a group of extraordinary artists and published in collaboration with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency.

For ages 12+

Skrimsli by Nicola Davies

Skrimsli by Nicola Davies

The second fantasy adventure from the author of The Song That Sings Us tells the tale of the tiger sea captain, Skrimsli, who must escape a circus with his friends Owl and Kal, then stop a war and save an ancient forest. Set in a world where animals and humans can share their thoughts, this is a thrilling story which tackles big themes: friendship, loyalty, identity and love.

For ages 12+

Island of Whispers by Frances Hardinge, illustrated by Emily Gravett

Island of Whispers by Frances Hardinge, illustrated by Emily Gravett

Written by Costa Book Award-winning Frances Hardinge and exquisitely illustrated by Kate Greenaway Medal winner Emily Gravett, this riveting coming-of-age tale follows Milo, who has inherited his late father’s job of Ferryman for the Dead. This beautiful, glittering hardback is the perfect gift for anyone who loves mysterious fantasy worlds.

For ages 12+

A Girl’s Guide to Being Fearless by Suzie Lavington & Andy Cope

A Girl’s Guide to Being Fearless by Suzie Lavington & Andy Cope

In an age of altered photos, filters and fillers, this valuable guide teaches young women how to retain control of their wellbeing, lift themselves and others up, and be excited for their future.

For ages 12+

Yours From the Tower by Sally Nicholls

Yours From the Tower by Sally Nicholls

It’s 1896, and three best friends leave boarding school and embark on very different lives, sharing all the while their hopes, frustrations, dramas and their romances in a series of letters. This addictive, immersive and uplifting book follows its winning heroines as they forge their own paths.

For ages 12+

Sisters of Sword and Shadow by Laura Bates

Sisters of Sword and Shadow by Laura Bates

Cass is destined for an arranged marriage, so jumps at the chance of freedom when a fierce, beautiful woman offers to take her away. She meets the Sisters of Sword and Shadow, a group of female knights, and soon discovers that she holds a power that could change her own fate as well as that of her sisterhood. An epic Arthurian fantasy for fans of Leigh Bardugo and Sarah J. Maas.

For ages 14+

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A gift beyond words

 

 

 

You know they love books, but don't know which one will make the best gift this Christmas... why not give them a gift beyond words with a National Book Token?

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Whatever they love to read, there's a National Book Token that's just the ticket.

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