Got any writers on your holiday list? Here are some last-minute gift ideas.
- Books. Reference books are sure to be a hit with your writer friends. The Synonym Finder by J.I. Rodale is my favorite thesaurus. It’s a great place to find those strong verbs and action words. Another great pick is On Writing by Stephen King — both a memoir of a first-rate writer and a great craft book. A gift card to your favorite independent bookstore is also a no-fail selection.
- Time. One thing every writer could use more of is time to write. Why not give a gift certificate for babysitting, housekeeping, or other chores? Or make your favorite writer a delicious homemade dinner so he or she can spend their time on their novel instead of in front of the stove.
- Technology. If you want to splurge, a Kindle, Nook, or other e-reader is cheaper than ever. Kindles now start at $79, Nooks at $99. If they already have one, a gift card for e-books is sure to be appreciated.
- Supplies. Every writer I know could use more notebooks, pens, pencils, sticky notes, paper clips, and other office supplies. This is an area where you can get really creative — like with these typewriter key paper clips or an endangered species eraser.
- Journals. I know I fill up a new writing journal almost every month, between notes, research, and character sketches. Even the most technologically advanced writer appreciates the beauty of a well-crafted journal like the ones from Paperblanks, Moleskine, and local artist Susie Ghahremani.
- Typewriter Key Jewelry. Because it’s pretty darn cool.
- Chocolate. I think this one speaks for itself
What’s on your wish list?
I’m not sure what I can add to this–but you can bet I’ll be using the list to get some great gifts! Thanks for the ideas!
Thanks for stopping by, Cori – glad the list is useful!
Oh I love the old typewriter key jewelry!!! The coolest!!!
You could add a pricey gift of a Writer’s Conference….
Great list Janet!
Lisa
Great idea on the conference, Lisa! So many good ones coming up locally…San Diego State, Southern California Writers Conference, San Francisco Writers Conference, and eventually RWA in Anaheim…wish I could go to them all!
Mmmmmm, the chocolate. I don’t do sweets much, but chocolate is my weakness, especially dark chocolate
Love the gift ideas! I have a thing for office supplies. The cuter the little device, notebook, organizer, or ooooh shiny is, the better. I don’t know where it comes from, but I’ll shop for two hours in a Staples or Office Depot.
A conference would be an amazing gift, but if it’s beyond the budget, you could always gift a writer a workshop or contest entry fee or a professional membership (aka local RWA chapter). A pubbed or experienced author could gift a manuscript, synopsis, or query critique–cost: a few hours of time, give or take; value: priceless.
Hi Angela! Love your idea of a workshop or contest entry fee, or a critique. What a fantastic notion! And I can get lost for hours in office supply stores too. That’s how I found those typewriter key paper clips in Staples!
Love these ideas, Janet! My dream gift to get (hint, hint to my kids–as in chip in?) -an -iPad. There, I said it. Merry Christmas, everyone!