Utilizing the Local Bookstore for Holiday Shopping

It's that time of year again. Holiday shopping begins Black Friday, which is only a week from today. Are you prepared? Perhaps you've already made your list, but why not round out each gift with a book? This is an easy, affordable way to show someone you really put thought into their gift.
Here are our a few of our favorite ideas for this holiday season!

1. A Slow Cooker + Cookbook

For the millennial who just moved into his or her first apartment or the working parent, a Crock Pot is an essential time-saver. Help them out even more by getting them a cookbook to go with it!

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2. Writing Essentials + Writer's Help Books

Whether it be blogging, poetry, or novels, odds are you have a writer in your life. A portable journal, reliable pens, a sturdy mug, a candle, and inspiring books are the key to a writer's heart.
​BONUS: The candle and WAFF Journal can be bought at R&B Used Books.

3. Star Wars Shirt and Lightsaber + Star Wars Books

The next movie is coming out in December, so prep your favorite Star Wars fan with some fan materials!

4. Dog Essentials + Training Books

Did your friend recently adopt a dog? Perfect! Since "Dog Showers" haven't quite caught on yet, help spoil their dog with treats, toys, or essentials like leashes, harnesses, or beds. Pair that with a training book to help them begin a great relationship.

5. Wine Accessory Set + Wine Books

While wine may seem like the obvious gift for a wine enthusiast, it's a daunting task for someone who doesn't have the same taste. (Red or white? Dry or sweet? How cheap is "cheap wine"?) Grab them some awesome accessories and a couple books  and worry no more!

6. Fitness Essentials + Fitness Books

Maybe they hit the gym every day, maybe it's a new sparked interest. Books with workout tips and some workout essentials (yoga mat, dumbbells, a good pair of shoes, etc.) make for a great gift for the fitness master or aspiring fitness guru in your life.

7. Garden Supplies + Garden Books

Winter is a sad time for gardeners, but it doesn't have to be anymore! We may be dreaming of warmer times, but we can keep up the garden-spiration with these Michigan/Midwest Garden Guides. Pair that with a couple house plants, and the gardener will be smiling again in no time!

8. Cookie Cutter + Baking Book

The holiday season: The season of never-ending parties and boredom over hosting gifts. If they invited you to a party, it's a safe guess that they relish all things associated with entertaining. A small but thoughtful gift would be a clever cookie cutter or a wine cork paired with a cookbook, baking book, or party planning book.

9. Craft Brewery Swag + Beer Books

We've covered the wine enthusiast, but Michigan is also sprinkled with craft beer lovers. If you don't know their favorite beer, how about some swag from the local brewery and a beer-themed book?

10. Art Supplies + Art Books

Replenish the paint and canvas and snag a resourceful art history book for the seasoned artist. Or how about the basics and a how-to book for a novice/beginner?

11. Golf Accessories + Golf Books

Golf can be an expensive hobby, and the accessories are so small! Bulk up your gift with a book.

12. Tools + Home Improvement Books

​This is the perfect gift for new home owners or DIYers. Some shiny tools or a nice toolbox to go with home improvement books.

13. Museum Souvenir + History Books

Ah, the historians. You could easily get away with getting a historian nothing but books this Christmas. But to keep with the theme, consider a small souvenir from their favorite museum to display proudly on the shelf beside the many books you're getting them. If they don't have room on the shelves, try a sweater or a shirt. (Hmm, perhaps a bookshelf would be a good pairing too!)

14. Crafts + Craft Idea Books

Craft books are a crafter's best friend. It's the favorite go-to for ideas without being sucked into the abyss of the Web. While the Internet is great for ideas, it's terrible for the crafter. They'll thank you for fresh craft supplies and idea books.

15. Luggage + Travel Books

Is a family member studying abroad next semester? Don't let them go unprepared! Stuff some luggage with travel books and language books to prep before leaving.

16. Mason Jars + Lunch Recipe Book

This is a great idea for a coworker or a health-conscious friend with a long commute. Lunches can be a pain to plan, so they'll be thankful for the inspiration!

17. Instrument Accessories + Music Biography

Replace the broken drumsticks or used reeds and pair it with a biography of their favorite musician to read before practice. Grand Blanc Music is just down the row from us, so there's less running around for you too!

18. Cat Toys + Cat Books

A post from R&B Used Books wouldn't be complete without a Springer cameo. Cat toys, cat condos, cat books, oh my! Let the cat lover in your life know you support their cat obsession with all things cats this Christmas!

Remember your local bookstore while gift shopping this holiday season! Stock up on favorites for the avid reader in your life or add a book to another gift to be sure it goes to good use. Get creative and have fun this year!
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We'd love to hear from you. Let us know your favorite gift-book pairing in the comments!

Carly Schlinkert

Guest Blogger for R&B Used Books