The perfect Christmas present

So today I'm going to talk about buying books for the holidays. You may think this goes without saying for a book blog. Well, the main inspiration for this post was a post done by Shannon Hale (yes, THAT Shannon Hale) on this very topic. You can go here to read the original post, but here's the thought that really struck me:

"Bookstores are going out of business, and we can't have that. For those of you who are hoping to be published writers one day, you especially have an interest in keeping bookstores alive. Without them, debut writers get lost. Without booksellers who hand sell, readers won't discover unknown authors. And without a book industry, known and unknown writers alike get lost."

Yes, despite the fact that the economy here in the US seems to be recovering the truth is that the publishing industry is still floundering somewhat. Can you imagine a world without books? I think I would die. I really think I would. So that alone is a good reason to give books as gifts.

And here's another reason: books really are the perfect gift. Reading promotes literacy (obviously) which in turn can lead to good grades and great chances for college. I attribute all of my academic success to my love of reading. Really!

Reading is a form of entertainment which engages it's audience. It's impossible to read a book and not have at least something pop into your head that makes you stop for a minute and think. Even if it's only for a second, that's a second you might not have thought about otherwise.

And reading is fun! And addicting. So do those on your gift list a favor and give a book this holiday.

Now, because of the recession I know money is tight for many of you this family. Trust me, I know how you feel. Our family is right there with you. And I realize books can get expensive. So here's some cost cutting ways to give books for the holidays:

1. Check for deals - Many online retailers such as Amazon.com periodically have great sales on their books. You can also get specials such as free shipping if you spend over $25, or use their 4 for 3 deals on many paperbacks. Also, always double check the third party offers on Amazon too. I've seen brand new $20 hardbacks available for $2 before.

2. Buy secondhand - The previously mentioned third parties on Amazon is a good place to start. But also check your local thrift stores. Yes, this can be totally hit and miss. You have to wade through a lot of junk to find the gems. But you do find gems. I've gotten $20 books brand new from my local thrift store, Deseret Industries, for just $1. Can't beat that!

3. Use trading sites - Sites like Paperbackswap, Bookmooch, and Swaptree are a great way to trade in those old books you have laying aroudn the house collecting dust for new one. Paperbackswap will even give you two free credits to order books once you get started. If you end up joining, tell them Greycat133 (my username) sent you! Each site has advantages and disadvantages, but right now I'm partial to Paperbackswap. But it changes for me. :)

Now, you notice I haven't listed any specific books you should be buying for the holidays. I have my opinions on that of course, but I'd like to hear what you all think before I add in my two cents. I'd like to turn this into a roundup of sorts. If you have a book you loved this year or a book you're giving for gifts this year, leave me a comment and let me know about it. If you've written a post about it on your blog leave me a link and I'll add that here too.

And here's a surprise for those of you who've made it this far. If you do leave me a suggestion not only will it count towards the Comment Contest, but you will get one extra entry into one of the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway-a-Day contest of your choice. After leaving your comment here, just add +1 to the contest of your choice.

Here's to giving books for Christmas!