It’s that time of year, folks. No, we’re not talking about it being the season to pay premium prices for blooms, bubbles, bonbons, and perfume — otherwise known as St Valentine’s Day. We’re talking about International Book Giving Day, though this does happen to share the same 14th February date.

That said, International Book Giving Day could be conveniently combined with St Val’s — why not give your loved one a well-chosen book (or books) alongside (or in place of) said premium-priced flowers and confectionary? 

If you need help choosing, browse our themed Collections (including one covering the Greatest Love Stories of All Time), take a look at our recommended gift books, and browse our experts’ Star Books. And, if you’re looking for the perfect present for the toddlers, children and teenagers in your life, our expert-curated Book Box subscription service is the gift that keeps giving for an entire year.

In the meantime, without further ado, and whether you plan to say “I do” or not, here are 6 reasons books make the best gifts, whatever day of the year it is.

1. Books show thought 

While the same box of chocs or bunch of blooms could be given by anyone to anyone, choosing a book for someone takes thought. Whether you consider their favourite writer while picking a novel, or ponder their hobbies to find their next favourite non-fiction read, giving a book is personal. It says you’ve thought about the recipient, which makes a great present even greater.

2. Books are affordably priced, with priceless benefits

While you could splash out on, for example, an expensive art monograph or a rare first edition, books don’t have to cost the earth. For under a tenner, you can buy the perfect book for your nearest and dearest. You’d be hard pushed to pick up a decent bouquet for that. As for those priceless benefits…

3. Books take readers on trips without breaking the bank 

Related to books being excellent value, they have the power to transport readers to distant lands without the expense or hassle of getting on a plane. So, why not give the gift of travel, or time-travel, with a book? How about a novel set in the recipient’s favourite holiday location, or their dream destination? What about an inspirational photo book? 

When it comes to books, the world really is your oyster. And they’re arguably better than eating oysters, too. They certainly last longer…

4. Books have longevity — and give life

Unlike flowers, books don’t die, and you don’t have to water them. In fact, in so far as they feed our minds and hearts, books water us. They help us grow. They boost our brains and mental agility. They improve our empathy and communication skills. Discover more in our feature on why reading is good for you.

It’s also true to say that unlike chocolates, books are nourishing. And they sustain us for far longer than the five minutes it takes to scoff a box of chocs. What’s more, it’s perfectly possible to have your books and eat (read) them. Find the right book for someone, and its power will last a lifetime. In short, books have an unlimited shelf-life. Talking of shelves…

5. Books look good

What’s not to like about a shelf of beautiful books? Think of those rainbows of spines, those intriguing talking-point titles. Books make a home more personal. They enrich its ambience. 

So, when you give a book as a gift, you’re basically enhancing the aesthetics of the recipient’s home for far longer than a bunch of flowers could (see point 4).

6. Books smell good

To bibliophiles, nothing beats that fresh-page smell. Not even a fragrant bouquet of roses or bottle of Chanel N°5 can come close to the alluring aroma of a new book.

So there you have it. A bunch of brilliant reasons to make books your go-to gift.