Great Choices in Books For the Holidays

When Christmas rolls around, for many "gift anxiety"already read these books, but if by chance they
sets in. Of course you want to give the perfect gift,have not, it's a great gift idea. For Twilight veterans,
but it's easy to get overwhelmed with the stress ofEllen Schriber's "Vampire Kisses" book series is likely
choosing that gift. Especially if your list of giftto delight. Also, Melissa de la Cruz's "Blue Bloods"
recipients is long! Gift lists are often dominated byseries should thrill Twilight fans.
DVDs and expensive electronics, but there is anFor adult readers, you must consider personal genre
alternative for those seeking out something quieterpreferences as well as whether the recipient favors
and more affordable: books. A book is a gift that hasfiction or non-fiction. Many readers love mystery, but
appeal for people of all ages. With a little timearen't so enthralled by romance, for example. By
devoted to surveying the interests of your friendstaking note of personalities and personal preferences
and family, you should be able find the perfect bookbefore heading out to the bookstore, you can make
for your friend or family member.your selection much easier.
In the children's realm, it's important to note the agesCritics' picks this year include Tracy Kidder's
of those receiving gifts. The youngest children arenon-fiction "Strength in What Remains" and fiction
bound to enjoy picture books featuring vibrant colorschoice, "Let the Great World Spin" by Colum McCann.
and imaginative language. The old stand-by classicsDan Brown finally released his follow-up to the
are bargain buys and widely available. Dr. Seuss booksmonster hit "The DaVinci Code" this year in "The
are a perennial favorite, and have a Beginner BookLost Symbol." Suspense and legal master John
Collection that retailers usually sell at a discount. EricGrisham released "The Associate," a choice for genre
Carle's "Very Hungry Caterpillar" series of books is afans. Political junkies from both sides of the political
modern classic.spectrum have choices this year. This year the hot
For middle readers, top choices this year include titleschoices are memoirs by the late Senator Ted
like "When You Reach Me" by Rebecca Stead andKennedy and former Vice Presidential nominee Sarah
"The Last Olympian" by Rick Riordan. These titles arePalin.
chapter books, and have stories pulsing withOptions abound, so take some time and you'll find
adventure and fantasy. For teens, this year is thethe perfect book.
year of the "Twilight" series. It's likely your teen has