In the US, Mother’s Day is just around the corner: the second Sunday in May. Shopping for Mom can be tough! She may say she doesn’t want a gift, or she may ask for utilitarian gifts that aren’t items she’ll really enjoy. But you really want to give a Mother’s Day gift that’s both meaningful and thoughtful. A few strategies for selecting the perfect gift can make the process easier.
Evoke the Joys and Memories of Motherhood
Motherhood is an incredible vocation; mothers form deep and magical connections with their children that lasts a lifetime. The right Mother’s Day gift can evoke those special moments shared with young children. For many moms, reading books with their kids represents a special ritual. A first or special edition of a beloved children’s book will evoke these fond memories. It can also become a special family heirloom, passed down to mothers from generation to generation.
Celebrate Her Hobbies and Interests
Mothers often put themselves last, pushing aside their own hobbies, interests, and passions to devote themselves to their children. Let her know that you haven’t forgotten her life beyond motherhood, and encourage her to explore it. If she’s into gardening, let images of famous gardens inspire her. From golf to cooking, books about Mom’s favorite interest are a great way to show your support as she explores these activities.
Share Inspiration from Famous Women
Throughout history, women have inspired and challenged us to greatness. Their stories give us a glimpse into different eras and cultures. Famous women like Joan of Arc, Jackie Kennedy, and Maya Angelou are all revolutionary figures in their own way—and they all represent different facets of femininity. Meanwhile, numerous female authors have broken new ground as novelists and poets, enriching our literature immeasurably. Share these stories for Mother’s Day.
Explore Books as Beautiful Objects
The best books are so much more than what they’re “about.” They are beautiful objects in their own right. The books of Charles Van Sandwyk, for instance, are works of art. Every page is magnificently illustrated. And fine press books like the ones from Heavenly Monkey elevate book production to an art form. For Mother’s Day, consider a book that is truly extraordinary.
April 19th, 2012
When Pope Gelasius established Saint Valentine’s Day in 496 AD, he certainly had no idea that the holiday would persist for centuries. The holiday was first associated with romance and love during the High Middle Ages, thanks to the burgeoning tradition of courtly love in Geoffrey Chaucer’s day. And nothing says “love” like giving the perfect book! Here’s a look at some favorite Valentine’s Day gift ideas for the bibliophile and rare book collector.
Classic Tales of Love
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to embrace classic tales of romance and love.
Everyone Loves a Little Fine Press
Fine press books are exceptionally beautiful and created in small numbers, making them an original and special gift.
- The works of Charles van Sandwyk, such as Affairs of the Heart, are impeccably illustrated.
- Samuel M Johnson’s “Two Lovers on a Bench,” an excerpt from the opera Einstein on the Beach, is available in limited editions from the renowned Heavenly Monkey press.
- Lovers of John Updike will appreciate the fine press edition of “Couples,” by the Halty Ferguson press, of which only 250 copies were printed.
February 1st, 2012
Christmas is fast approaching, and you still have plenty of gifts to buy. What to do? Find just the right book for every name on that list! The right book gives a lifetime of joy and pleasure. Walter Rodgers, of the Christian Science Monitor, reminds us that books have incredible power because “they are our bulwarks against time, ignorance, and barbarity.”
Christmas Classics
People of all ages have fond memories of classic Christmas tales. Perennial favorites include Clement Clarke Moore’s Night before Christmas and Chris Van Allsburg’s Polar Express, along with works by legendary illustrator Charles Van Sandwyk. First editions of these books make lovely additions to any personal library, and are also a wonderful way to introduce youngsters to the world of rare books.
But not all Christmas-themed books are illustrated; numerous authors have focused on the holiday season as backdrops for their works. Saul Bellow’s Dean’s December, for instance takes place during the holiday season. And Nancy Atherton breathes a little Yuletide cheer into her famous series with Aunt Dimity’s Christmas.
Legendary Authors
Certain authors have remained popular throughout the ages, and some modern authors have emerged as true literary emissaries of our age. From Umberto Eco and Doris Lessing, to Philip Roth and JRR Tolkien, these legendary authors represent some of the greatest artists and thinkers of our century.
First editions of works by these authors make excellent gifts. Their universal appeal and perennial popularity among collectors mean that they’ll generally continue to hold value over time.
Hobbies and Interests
A fantastic way to select gift books is to consider the recipient’s hobbies and interests. Books about a favorite subject are always welcome, and they make lovely complements to the hobbyist’s library:
If you’d like help selecting the right books for everyone on your holiday list, or if you have questions about shipping options, please feel free to contact us.
December 14th, 2011
We just celebrated Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day isn’t far behind. Since 1910, Father’s Day has been celebrated on the third Sunday in June throughout the United States. It was recognized as an official holiday in 1972.
Now is the time to choose the perfect gift for dear old dad. Whether your father is more like Atticus Finch or TS Garp, a well chosen book could be just the present you’re looking for.
Books about Hobbies
Books about hobbies often make excellent gifts. And don’t just stop with the “how-to” books. Consider memoirs or biographies of people involved in the same hobby.
- Fishing is both an art and a sport. From Compleat Angler to famous bass fishing lore, fishing offers plenty of captivating reads for anyone who loves the rod and reel.
- Anyone looking to improve his golf swing will find plenty of guides from the pros. Icons like Tom Watson, John Daly, Greg Norman, and Arnold Palmer have all contributed to golf literature.
- If your father is a shutterbug, then books about art and photography are a natural choice. Look for collections that capture a favorite city or region.
- Avid readers may appreciate a work of fiction by a favorite author.
Books about Dad’s Favorite Subjects
Books are truly passports to lifelong learning. Help your father delve into his favorite subjects.
- History buffs will appreciate books about presidents or about significant events such as the lunar landing.
- Both amateur and professional scientists enjoy books about various branches of the field, from astronomy to zoology.
- Pop culture aficionados will like books that tie in with movies, such as Ian Fleming’s James Bond books .
Regardless of your father’s interests, rare books are an ideal gift. For more Father’s Day gift ideas, peruse our signed books or key categories for discerning collectors.
May 25th, 2011
