Book Gift List Picks 2024

Last night at the Livewire holiday gathering, a few of us dove into a deep conversation about books—and honestly, I live for this kind of thing. Sharing and swapping great book recommendations? That’s basically my love language.

So, if you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift for a bookworm (or yourself, let’s be real), here’s my list of 2024 picks that deliver every time.

Do you have a reader in your life? Are you secretly wishing you were one? Either way, let’s dive in!

For the Adventure Junkie

Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer Why they’ll love it: Hands down, my favorite book of all time. If the idea of mountaineering doesn’t already grab you, this story will. Krakauer’s firsthand account of climbing Everest is gripping, tragic, and beautifully written. Be warned, though—you might catch yourself Googling “climbing gear” after reading.

For the Smart Reader Who Loves a Page-Turner

Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney Why they’ll love it: Clever, painfully relatable, and weirdly addictive. I couldn’t wait to get into bed every night to keep reading. Sally Rooney’s take on the messy, beautiful parts of relationships is pure magic—like she read your diary but made it sound cooler.

Funny Story by Emily Henry Why they’ll love it: Two heartbroken strangers team up to fake-date their exes? Yes, please. This rom-com is hilarious, heartfelt, and surprisingly deep. Emily Henry is so good at crafting stories that make you laugh while also low-key breaking your heart.

Good Material by Dolly Alderton Why they’ll love it: Picture this: a 35-year-old comedian navigating heartbreak, bad dates, and life in London. It’s sharp, funny, and somehow still tender. Think of it as a rom-com that’s all grown up—modern-day Nora Ephron vibes but with an edge.

For the BookTok Obsessed

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid Why they’ll love it: If they haven’t read this already, just trust me—it’s time. Glamorous Hollywood scandals, unexpected twists, and all the emotional depth you’d want from a binge-worthy novel. Bonus: A Netflix adaptation is on the horizon, so they’ll feel ahead of the curve.

For the Literature Lover

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath Why they’ll love it: This book evolves with you. Whether it’s your first or fifth read, Plath’s writing hits differently every time. A haunting and beautifully written exploration of identity, ambition, and mental health.

Yellowface by R.F. Kuang Why they’ll love it: Bold, darkly funny, and brutally smart. Kuang’s take on plagiarism, cultural appropriation, and the pressures of social media will have them laughing and thinking. Perfect for anyone who loves a side of scandal with their literary critique.

Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar Why they’ll love it: This poetic debut novel is a quiet masterpiece. Akbar’s story of a struggling poet searching for meaning is heartbreaking, beautiful, and so worth your time. For readers who love emotional depth and big payoffs.

Rejection by Tony Tulathimutte Why they’ll love it: Sharp, witty, and painfully real. These interconnected stories tackle rejection in love, life, and the internet age. It’s funny, satirical, and sneakily emotional—the perfect mix.

For the Emotional Reader

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara Why they’ll love it: Grab tissues (like, a lot). This devastatingly beautiful story of friendship and trauma is one of those books that will stay with you forever. It’s heartbreaking in the best possible way.

The Hurting Kind by Ada Limón (Poetry) Why they’ll love it: Limón has this incredible way of turning tiny, everyday moments into something profound. Her poetry is lush, poignant, and so full of heart—it’s like a warm hug for the soul.

For the Sci-Fi & Fantasy Fan

All Systems Red (The Murderbot Diaries) by Martha Wells Why they’ll love it: Murderbot is an absolute mood. Its dry humor and existential musings make for a hilariously relatable protagonist, even in a futuristic world. Plus, the series has some of the best world-building I’ve ever read.

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas Why they’ll love it: Think Beauty and the Beast but add steamy romance and epic fantasy vibes. If they’re into BookTok, they’ve probably heard of this one—it’s the ultimate guilty pleasure.

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros Why they’ll love it: Dragons, danger, and an enemies-to-lovers romance that sizzles. It’s basically Hunger Games meets Harry Potter with a little extra spice. (Not for kids!)

Your Turn!

These are my top picks for the year, but now I want to hear yours! What’s a book you couldn’t put down this year? Drop your recommendations in the comments and let’s build the ultimate gift list together.