Unwrapping holiday presents can be painful for book lovers—the process almost always necessitates false smiles and squeals of delight. “Thanks for that Nicholas Sparks book, Mom and Dad!” “I really do love Dan Brown, Uncle Dave!” As a fellow bibliophile, I feel your pain. It’s time to stand up for your right to receive as great a present as that given to your younger brother who is into “Family Guy” and football. Slip this list into Santa’s mailbox in order to ensure your own holiday happiness.
Beacon bookmarks ($6-$10)
Earmarking pages is bad book etiquette, but bookmarks are so easy to lose in the shuffle. These bookmarks are adorable, yes, but more importantly, they are durable. You’ll never lose your page—or your bookmark—again.
Strand tote bag ($6 and up)
Not only are you supporting everyone’s favorite New York bookseller, but you’ll also have a trendy and appropriately sized bag in which to carry your new books. What’s more, Strand bags foster a unique solidarity. Fast friendships can be made when you spot a fellow toter on the subway.
Kindle 2 ($259)
This is the hotly debated techno gadget for book lovers. It does seem awesome to be able to have any book you want right at your fingertips, but the bookish pride themselves on, well, their books. Somehow my dream library would not be complete if I had a Kindle 2 on my shelf instead of every volume of the Oxford English Dictionary. But the next decade is fast approaching, and these gadgets are a lot more convenient for lugging back and forth on holiday breaks.
Bookends ($20-$200)
For those who pride themselves more on their libraries than on their reading, bookends are a fashionable and useful gift. They come in all shapes, sizes, and styles—from cute and whimsical to austere and professional.
Book lights ($6)
These little gizmos are crucial for those of us with roommates who go to bed early. They also come in handy when you want to read in bed but hate getting up to turn off the light after you are all warm and cozy under the covers. For maximal reading pleasure, look for those that are lightweight, bright, and adjustable.

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