The Yuletide Guide: Must Have Books of 2019

It’s that time of year again where we attempt to figure out the perfect gifts for our friends and family. Sometimes this is an easy process, while sometimes we just need a push in the right direction. I’m here to help you find that direction with the fellow book nerd in your life! Books are never a bad decision for a book lover. No matter what time of day, book lovers always find themselves wanting to rid themselves of all responsibilities and cuddle up on the couch with some hot chocolate, or coffee, and a good book during the holiday season. If there is a way to include a pet and a blanket in this scenario somehow even better.

Below I have discovered many books any book lover would enjoy.  The books I have compiled are perfect for fans of movies, television, and music. Many books are in stores this season, which means there’s something for everyone on your shopping list as well as ours.

The Beautiful Ones – $17.89

Prince was a legend in the music world. His impact will forever leave an imprint on fans as well as artists who are continuing to create. According to Amazon, in this book, we get a glimpse inside of Prince’s creative process in four parts. The first part of the book is the memoir Prince was writing before his death. The book also includes details of his early years in the music industry, the evolution of the icon he became, and a fourth part that includes an original handwritten treatment of Purple Rain.  You can purchase Prince’s The Beautiful Ones here.

Little Fires Everywhere – $14.58

Not only was this book featured as a part of Reese Witherspoon’s book club, but she is also adapting it into a Hulu limited series in 2020. The series will star Witherspoon herself as well as Kerry Washington.  This book truly makes one look back at being a teenager but makes you step into the shoes of your mother.  “Little Fires Everywhere” is a book that leaves one thinking well after they put it down.  However, be prepared to map out time to read it because once you start you will not want to put it down. The book was also named the best book of the year in 2017 by multiple publication outlets.  You can purchase Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng here.

Me – $10.58

Rocketman was one of this year’s best films.  While the narrative was changed to fit the overall arc of the biopic, Elton John is an enigma in the industry with plenty of stories left to tell.  This autobiography is a must-have for a fan of John’s music and the man himself. The book has reached number one on the New York Times Bestseller List and is garnering rave reviews for John’s ability to captivate his audiences like only he knows how.  You can purchase Elton John’s Me here.

Daisy Jones & the Six – $14.82

This particular book immediately went on my list of books to read this year.  This is another one that belongs to Reese Witherspoon’s book club and is currently being adapted for a 13-episode series for Amazon! Reid captures 1970s rock in ways readers would not expect. If they catch a few familiar similarities within the book, there is a striking resemblance to Fleetwood Mac.  Any fan of 1970s rock will appreciate Reid’s venture into this world and ultimately will look forward to the adaptation.  You can purchase Daisy Jones & The Six here.

The iZombie Omnibus – $52.66

If you are a fan of iZombie like myself you miss the show terribly.  While the show was loosely adapted from the comics, as our lead character is named Gwen and not Liv Moore, there’s still more of the world that can be explored.  Despite the difference in the narrative, as are the characters’ names, for a fan to have the opportunity to stay in the iZombie world a little longer makes this omnibus perfection. Although the omnibus might be out of your price range, the individual comics can be purchased as well.  Though the omnibus is the better deal than purchasing the comics individually overall.  You can purchase the iZombie Omnibus here.

Batman: Damned – $19.47

Let me preface this graphic novel by saying this is not one for your kids. “Batman: Damned” is a much darker version of the character than most fans have been privy to over the years. Any adult fan of Batman will appreciate this deeper and darker look at the caped crusader. Batman might be the world’s greatest detective, but will he be able to discover The Joker’s killer?  The story is written by Brian Azzarello and illustrated by Lee Bermejo, two comic greats.  You can purchase Batman: Damned here.

I Really Didn’t Think This Through Tales from My So-Called Adult Life – $9.14 

A lot of times as an adult we do not feel like we have everything together.  In this book, we get a glimpse of Beth Evans’ life through illustrations, stories, and wisdom.  Amazon describes the book as a hug from your best friend. And like a best friend, she’s here to say “You got this!”  The whole point of the book is to remind you to be you.  Despite all the personal struggles we all face on a daily basis being ourselves is always possible.  You can purchase I Really Didn’t Think This Through Tales from My So-Called Adult Life here.

Creepshow – $13.40

With the re-emergence of the films, and now the hit television show on Shudder, this would be perfect for any fan of Creepshow.  This particular comic goes through each story in the original film and retells it in comic format. I’m hoping eventually there will be a similar copy of Creepshow 2 as well as the show.  Another popular way to go with these is various copies of Tales from the Crypt comics or The Vault of Horror comics on Amazon as well.  You can purchase Creepshow by Stephen King here.

The Making of Star Wars – $55.16

Everyone has their favorite movie.  For Star Wars fans the original movie and trilogy are by far the films that stand out in the franchise.  That’s why getting The Making of Star Wars: The Definitive Story Behind the Original Film will make any Star Wars fan’s Christmas morning. If you are feeling extra generous this year you can buy the two other versions for The Empire Strikes Back ($45.12) and Return of the Jedi ($56.89) for $157.17 total too. You can purchase The Making of Star Wars here.

Marvel Powers of a Girl – $9.89

This book focuses completely on the females of the Marvel Universe.  If that is not enough of a reason to buy this wonderful book, the book is also written and illustrated by women!  As stated on Amazon this book is filled with inspirational lessons and clever observations, each section digs into what these relatable women can teach us all about growth, bravery, and the true meaning of strength. So what are you waiting for? Introduce your child into the wonders of Marvel’s great female superheroes! You can purchase Marvel Powers of a Girl here.

If you are doubting that a fellow book nerd will love a book from you this season just recite the Reading Rainbow theme song to yourself and know that we will love it. It does not matter if we have tubs of books we have to go through currently to donate, sell, or read there are never enough books in the world to fulfill our thirst for exploring a new world even if that world.  If you are not sure what book to purchase, a gift card to Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million is always a good way to go too.  You can also check out last year’s guide too for some extra ideas!