Greats books to give as gifts to friends

Catch up on some chilly holiday reads with books like Let it Snow. Photo by Kaitlyn Ngo.

By Isabella Purdy & Jennifer Trend, Staff Writers

Not sure what to get your friend this holiday season? We’ve picked some of our favorite books this holiday season that would make great gifts, and would be sure to put smiles on anyone’s faces.

Harry Potter: the Illustrated Editions by J.K. Rowling, illustrated by Jim Kay

If your friend loved the Harry Potter series, chances are they will love the illustrated versions of books 1-3, along with the Fantastic Beasts. These books have beautiful illustrations that cover the whole page, and easily transports you the wizarding world, making it seem like you’re reading a giant storybook.

Let it Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson & Lauren Myracle

Let’s face it, John Green is very popular, and this book he wrote with two other authors features three short stories which all connect.  Prepare to laugh as you get caught up in the crazy escapades of three different groups of teens as they search for their friend’s teacup pig, attempt the journey to the Waffle House, venture out into the unknown and find love.

The Thousandth Floor by Katharine McGee

This first book in the series will be perfect if they love a dazzling life, mystery and a hint of romance. Taking place in the future, five completely different people with different lives all somehow manage to intertwine with each other to meet their fate at the top of the tower, a thousand stories high. With everything to gain and lose, whose life will end at the top of the tower?

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

This debut novel causes readers to cheer for Auggie Pullman as he faces his first year of middle school with a one of a kind face.  He overcomes every obstacle in his way, and all of the characters around him change as well.  This book will warm anyone’s heart, and with the new movie out, you can see the movie together after your friend reads the book.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

This first book in a fast-paced series is sure to get your friend’s attention and will have them begging for the next book as soon as they’re done.  The plot has many twists and leaves lots of unanswered questions along the way. It also consists of memorable and intriguing characters.

But any reader will be happy to get any book or book-ish thing. Don’t stress over getting a gift for your reader—as book nerds ourselves, we love any book…even the ones that we’ve read or dislike. Even a book-ish thing such as a bookmark or a poster or bag with a quote is just as great. Just make sure to wrap it up so it’s surprise for them!