🎁Gift Books for Kids (puzzle, crossword, stickers, coffee table, etc.)!

MBH no. 34

Dec 10, 2024

Last year, instead of putting together a typical gift guide, I shared the books I was actually getting my kids for Christmas. This year, I’m highlighting some special “gift” books perfect for kids and younger teens: think activity books, sticker books, puzzle books, and even gorgeous coffee table books (if you’re into those, check out this post for more coffee table books for kids—they all make beautiful holiday gifts!)

I’ve already bought several for my 10 and 12-year-old, along with some great fiction I’ll share soon. December can get so hectic, so I hope this list takes some stress off your plate and sparks an idea or two for the young readers in your life. I’ll be back in January. Happy Holidays!

Share The Magic Book House

The Wonderous Workings of Science and Nature Coloring Book, by Rachel Ignotofsky

I’ve written before about my love for Rachel Ignotofsky’s amazing nonfiction books for kids. She’s an incredible illustrator, so her books are both beautiful and educational.

We own What’s Inside a Bird’s Nest and The Wonderous Workings of Planet Earth, and although my kids aren’t drawn to picture books like they used to be, Ignotofsky’s books are truly collectibles.

I was excited to pick up Ignotofsky’s science and nature coloring book for my daughter. She loves art and is especially drawn to Ignotofsky’s unique style, so I think she’ll really like this one.

If your reader isn’t into coloring books, she’s got a few gorgeous jigsaw puzzles to check out. My personal favorite is Women in Art, but it’s currently back ordered. Keep checking though, because Bookshop.org restocks quickly.

I also loved this quote from her website: Rachel believes when you take the time to organize complex information—and then take the next step to make it beautiful with art — you can reach even the most reluctant learner. Illustration is a powerful tool when it comes to education.

Usborn Sticker Books (Sticker Dolly Dressing on Vacation)

Oh I go down a rabbit hole of sticker books every year! There are so many incredible ones for all ages, but I’m often drawn toward the “Usborn” brand for gift-giving. They’ve got sticker books for older and younger kids on a variety of topics: fairies, bugs, dragons, mermaids, space, dogs–lots of options for whatever your kid is into.

Even though she’s 10 and almost out of her sticker book phase, my daughter still secretly loves them. She’s had princesses, and fairies, but has recently gotten interested in drawing dresses and accessories, so I think this “dolly dressing on vacation” will be perfect for our plane ride during winter break.The Antiquarian Sticker Books (Older Tweens and Teens)

Let’s say you have an older child who loves stickers but is firmly past the Usborn style—there are still plenty of options for them! I haven’t purchased these, but I’ve had them in my list forever– they might like these antiquarian sticker books. They’re so gorgeous– be sure to check out how substantial they are! Part of a 3 book series that also includes Imaginarium and Bibliophilia.

I linked to Bookshop.org (because I’m an affiliate and want to support local booksellers) but I’d feel bad not saying that these particular books are much cheaper on Amazon.

Amazon

NYT Mini Crosswords

My 12-year-old has been getting into crossword puzzles lately—he loves to help me with mine, even though some of them can be a bit daunting. These mini crosswords seem like the perfect fit for him: challenging enough, but manageable–and not too overwhelming. Small enough to fit into a stocking!

The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World

Wowowow this book is stunning! I initially bought it for my son but think I might make this a family coffee table book, and I can’t wait to take the cellophane off. What a gorgeous gift for anyone who loves travel, art, photography, and of course—books.

Murdle Jr.: Curious Crimes for Curious Minds

I featured Murdle in last year’s gift guide, and it was a big hit with my (then) 6th grader—I actually enjoyed the puzzles too! That said, my 3rd grader tried to solve some of the “beginner” puzzles at the start of the book wasn’t quite able to figure them out independently.

(Of course, just because my 9-year-old struggled doesn’t mean yours will! In fact, her good friend had a great time with the original Murdle and found the puzzles manageable.)

That said, my daughter was a bit disappointed she couldn’t quite do it, so I was excited to discover the release of Murdle Jr.! Although the publisher recommends it for ages 10+, I think many kids as young as 8 could enjoy these puzzles. Regardless, you’ll likely be able to gauge the best level for your child. Highly recommend!

Epic Snow Adventures of the World

Like I’ve said before, living in Colorado, we’re definitely mountain people and my kids and husband are great skiers. (I am a very very average skier but they wait for me😂)

Anyway, I thought my whole family would love this new coffee table book to add to our collection. Lonely Planet does such a great job with these types of books–tons of interesting information for older kids and adults, vibrant drawings, and unique photographs.

Amazon

Sports Illustrated College Football’s Greatest

Finally, I realized I hadn’t included any books for sports-loving kids, apart from the ski book. So, I wanted to share one I got my son for his birthday last year. This is a big, heavy book with glossy photographs and lots of information. As you can see, ours is VERY well-loved :)

You can find it on Amazon or Bookshop.org (was on backorder when I linked this, but might be back)

I’d really love to know what gift books you’ve found for your readers (or yourself!!)

Also, I know it’s harder to engage with a newsletter that posts monthly instead of weekly, but that’s all I can do right now to keep this free for everyone–and I promise I read every comment and appreciate them all!

✨Wishing you hours and hours of reading magic,✨

Katie