ThriftBooks Staff Picks

The books we're gifting this year!

If you're looking for something good to read, you're in the right place. No one knows books better than our staff of certified book lovers! And just like you, we're planning to give books as presents this holiday season. Learn about some of the books we're choosing for our nearest and dearest this year.

Dinosaurs: A Guide to the Prehistoric World by Claire Hibbert, Claudia Martin, Ben Hubbard, and Liz Miles

"I'll be giving this to my nephew, who loves animals and is learning to read. His favorite book I've given him so far is An Anthology of Intriguing Animals which is a gorgeously illustrated and oversized book of animal facts. I think he's also going to love this dinosaur book full of illustrations, information and sprayed edges that make it special. It's one I can see him (and me too) going back to again and again."

–Amanda C., Content & Merchandising Specialist

All Systems Red by Martha Wells

"This novella is a bop! It's light, crowd-pleasing sci-fi that got me looks for laughing out loud in public. It's also the basis for a fun series on Apple TV starring Alexander Skarsgård."

–Allison S., Senior Manager, Data & Analytics

This Cursed Beautiful Land: A Russian-American Story by Evan Gershkovich

"This is as important a new book as I have experienced in some time. Gershkovich, a rising star journalist for the Wall Street Journal, was imprisoned in Russia for over a year as an alleged spy. This is a cautionary tale of the reaches of autocratic government and what happens when the rights of credible journalists are suspended for convenience or unbalanced negotiation. Gershkovich never intended to be a hero, but he is one, a caring individual who maintained his courage and integrity under extraordinary duress. The story of his experience is a gift worth sharing."

–Ken G., Chief Executive Officer

An Ox Named Oink and A Pig Named Moo: An Unlikely Friendship that Changed the Farm by Hortencia E. Camargo

"This is the book I’ll be gifting to my family members this year. It’s a beautiful reminder for both adults and children that true compassion, acceptance, friendship, and love are found when we look beyond the physical and learn to see the heart and soul of one another.

The Lost Bride Trilogy by Nora Roberts

"And this for my friend who loves a romance with more spooky, quirky charm than sappy drama. This trilogy has it all: a haunted manor, an ancient curse, a quest to unravel the mystery, and an unexpected stumble into love."

–Olivia D.T., Customer Service Rep

London Falling by Patrick Radden Keefe

"When I emigrated from London, that City was grey, it shut at 10:30 at night and any food that wasn’t Indian tasted like a washcloth. Now it’s incredible; the world’s best food markets, restaurants, nightlife etc. All at a price, though. This book—his prior opus, Say Nothing, is in my top 10 of all time—tells the story of the tragic and suspicious death of a well-off 19-year-old, but it also paints an amazing picture of the price that post-Thatcher London paid to get back that glittering, Instagram-worthy status. Even if someone hasn’t set foot in the place, this is a stunning book."

–Hugo M., Director, Enterprise Services

Murder at the Movies by Alicia Malone

"My family are huge classic movie buffs, and TCM host Alicia Malone's debut fiction novel perfectly blends the classic small town cozy mystery with homages and references to Hollywood's Golden Age of Film. A great gift for film lovers and cozy mystery lovers alike."

–Ashlyn T., Fulfillment Manager

Mona's Eyes: The Illustrated Edition by Thomas Schlesser

"This is a deeply moving novel about a young French girl threatened with blindness whose grandfather is determined to show her all that is beautiful during the year before she loses her sight. This gorgeous special edition incorporates the works of art that Mona and her grandfather enjoy in the book. It's the perfect gift for my Francophile mom. She is also a fan of moving family stories, historical fiction, and fine art, so I think she's going to love it."

–Ashly S., Content & Product Data Specialist

This year, give the most present gift. A book-shaped gift.

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Read more by Ashly Moore Sheldon