Gifts for Writers

Finding a gift for the writer in your life isn’t always the easiest thing. You can’t expect someone else to test drive that new writing software for you and unfortunately publishing deals aren’t available at Macy’s.

So, here at the How to Write Shop, we thought we’d lend a helping hand. Whether you are shopping for yourself or that important writing friend, we have a few fun ideas for you to add to your gifts for writers shopping list.

Gifts for Writers

• My Reading Life by Pat Conroy is about the books that provided this powerhouse author with inspiration and ultimately changed his life. Like many authors, he counts himself a passionate reader first. If you know someone engaged in writing a book, they most likely love to read, and this story will touch their soul.
• A favorite pen can be a great gift for the writer who still does the “the old-fashioned way.” Historical and memoir writers love to write with that special pen. If you have a writer whose passion is journaling, a special pen is a perfect gift.
• Speaking of journaling, a blank, bound journal waiting to be filled with words is sure to please. Many writers adore Moleskine.
• Café Press is a great place to go for unique gifts for writers. From their Write Now wall clock, to mugs and t-shirts proclaiming: Careful or you’ll end up in my novel, this is a great place to find the perfect gift for creative writers. Amazon also offers a CAREFUL YOU’LL END UP IN MY NOVEL Hooded Sweatshirt.
• What more positive gift than one announcing an intention to the world? The “I write” t-shirt proves you’re proud of the creative writer in your life.
• Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott is a necessary addition for anyone writing a novel, short story, screenplay, or memoir—you name it! This author’s guidance and thoughts on how to deal with writing demons are indispensable.
• Give a magazine subscription to keep your writer inspired throughout the year Writer’s Digest, Poets & Writers, The Writer Magazine, or any of the many literary magazines such as American Sort Fiction, or Zoetrop’s All-Story.
• What about a gift certificate for a massage session? Writers are notorious for bad backs and hunched necks and shoulders from their hours of working at a computer or pouring over a manuscript.
• Still can’t decide? Try a gift card to a bookstore (Amazon has some cute ones you can personalize and send over the Internet) or office supply store. Anyone engaged in the art of writing always has a list of his or her own. Or do the shopping for them online.