Compiling this list of holiday gifts for writers and authors is one of my favorite things to do.

All year, I save little gems I discover online that I think you’ll love. I also ask members of the Build Book Buzz Book Marketing Group for suggestions. They never disappoint.

The result is a carefully curated* list of affordable suggestions for every author and writer on your list — including you!

Grab a hot beverage, settle in, and start shopping. And be sure to forward this list to people who’d like to buy you a gift you’re certain to enjoy, too.

29 holiday gifts for writers and authors

Click on each product name to get more information. Full disclosure: Some of the selections include affiliate links, which means we receive a small commission on sales but the cost to you is the same. Also, prices are subject to change.

Your favorite gifts for writers and authors are listed in a totally random order. There is absolutely no rhyme or reason to this, but they’re all excellent options.

1. The Book Hookup Themed Subscription Book Box

Starting at $37.50/box 

This is the ultimate gift for any book lover — which describes most writers and authors. Each quarter, you’ll receive a first edition of a “highly anticipated” book plus an additional paperback and literary goodies. Select from one of several categories. This is from one of my favorite indie retailers, The Strand Bookstore, but Google will help you find other book subscription boxes, too.

2. More Books Short Sleeve Unisex Tee

$27.99

I’m a customer of this company, Piper & Ivy. It’s a family-owned, eco-friendly, Florida business. I can promise you that its shirts are super soft (just how I like them!). It has a great selection of holiday tees for book lovers. And, for an additional $4.99, you can add a pack of vinyl book stickers to your order. Pretty cool, right? Spend your money with a clothing brand that loves books and reading as much as you do!

3. Read Banned Books Long Sleeve Unisex Tee

$33.99

Confession: I just ordered this Piper & Ivy shirt. In addition to its holiday themed shirts, this site offers lots of book-themed shirts you can wear all year. Buy one for yourself or a friend (or author Pamela Cummins, who suggested book-themed t-shirts for this guide)! (P.S. Save 25% by signing up for its emails.)

4. To-Do List Sticky Notes

$15.99

I’m one of those people who loves to cross things off their to-do list. Does this give you pleasure, too? I didn’t even know these cool sticky notes existed until author Megy Karydes suggested them. Aren’t they the coolest? Amazon offers them in a square size, too, but my to-do lists are loooong so I prefer this format.

5. Fingerless Gloves

$13.99 for 4 pairs

Writer and author Mary Mihaly would like to receive fingerless gloves like these this holiday season. How about you? My home office is toasty, but I know that’s not always the case. If you need a space heater next to your writing space, you need these gloves for typing, too! Add them to your wish list.

6. Stained Glass Stacked Books Lamp

$35.99

Isn’t this a beautiful way to communicate how much you love reading? This is a lovely gift for writers, authors, and all book lovers.

7. Dead Fred Pen Holder

$12

Grab this dude as a stocking stuffer for any writer in your life, but especially for a mystery or thriller writer. I received one as a gift; it makes me smile every day.

8. LEUCHTTURM1917 – Monthly Planner & Notebook 2024 with extra booklet

$29.95

Several authors told me they’d like to receive a planner; this is author Megy Karydes‘ recommendation. It’s available in different colors and sizes. There are several writer-specific planners available as well.

9. 365 New Words-A-Year Page-A-Day Calendar 2024

$14.95

As writers, we are all about the words. Get more of them with this word-a-day desktop calendar from Merriam-Webster.

10. Book Lover’s Scented Soy Wax Candle

$21.99+

Who doesn’t love the scent of a quality candle burning, especially on a cold winter night? To order this one on Etsy, select your scent (how about lavender vanilla or blackberry jam?) and the size first.

11. “Chapter One” and “The End” earrings

$13.66

These stainless steel, hypo-allergenic earrings are back by popular demand. Get a pair for yourself and a friend.

12. ConvertKit Creator annual plan

30% off through Cyber Monday

ConvertKit is my email marketing service provider because it’s designed specifically for creators like us, is easy to use, and provides excellent tech support and customer service. The company also offers free training for its customers, something I take advantage of, and a steady flow of helpful e-mail marketing information. I highly recommend it.

13. Scriveiner Ballpoint Pen

$31.99

This exquisite pen is on author Candy Harrington’s gift list and now that I’ve seen it, it’s on mine, too. Don’t worry about it running out of ink; you can buy refills.

14. YETI Rambler 20 oz Travel Mug

30% off right now, $21

I normally include a coffee mug with a cheeky message but let’s face it: We all have enough coffee mugs, don’t we? Let’s elevate that hot boverage experience with this thermal version! I received this as a gift and love, love, love it. Use it at home or at your favorite coffee shop (just pour your beverage into it and sip while you work!). (Hitting the road? I have this one, too, and it keeps beverages hot for hours!). I especially like that there are many color options.
15. Reader Book Review Form

$29

Every author needs a copy of this form that helps readers write those all-important reader reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and other retail and review sites. Authors are calling this “the missing link” for reader reviews. There’s one for fiction and another for nonfiction; get both at a discount.

16. Book Lover Earrings

$9.99 (sale price)

I discovered these through an Instagram ad and knew you had to have them! Aren’t they the cutest? And because the books are multi-colored, you can wear these with almost any outfit.

17. Library Card Socks

$9.99

Who doesn’t need (or want!) book socks? I love these library socks because they’re a subtle way to support our libraries, but this company also offers a “good friends/good books” pair, a No. 2 pencil design, and a pair with a Jane Austen quote.

18. ProWritingAid

50% off through November 30

ProWritingAid, one of the most popular writing aids for authors, is offering 50% off premium lifetime or yearly plans for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. There’s also a free version to try before you decide to upgrade to the more substantial paid version. One writer told me, “Without it, I find it very difficult to locate all the little things, like split infinitives, comma splices, and variations in spelling between the UK and the U.S.”

19. Libro Audiobook sale

Books on sale through November 27, credit bundles starting at $30 are 10% off December 5-7

I love buying audiobooks from Libro because the company splits profits with indie bookstores. That means I can support my local bookstore every time I make a purchase. Many best-sellers are on sale now through November 27; audibook credit bundles will be 10% off December 5 to December 7.

20. No Such Thing as Too Many Books Tote

$12.99

There’s also no such thing as too many tote bags, which makes this a great gift for the writers and book lovers in your life. There are lots of other book-lover tote options, too. Just use the search box.
21. Book Marketing Coaching

$150

Give yourself the gift of advice by purchasing an hour of my time to work through your book marketing issues. Most authors consult with me to identify marketing opportunties and priorities for their specific book because they know book marketing isn’t one-size-fits-all.

22. Time

$0

I know that novelist Cynthia Swanson spoke for many when she said, “Anything you can do for a writer to give them more time to write is the greatest gift possible. Babysit their kids, bring them a meal, buy them a night in a hotel room so they can hole up and write for 24 hours, all alone.” And it won’t cost you a thing.

23. Create Your Vision Board: The 2-Hour Guide to Attracting the Life You Want

$12.05

Some people swear by vision boards, saying that daily reminder of where they want to go helps get them there. Why not create one for your book? My friend Marcia Layton Turner‘s guide to vision boards is probably the best resource for this on the market. UPDATED November 28, 2023: Marcia is hosting a free vision board class on January 11, 2024 at 7 p.m. ET. Register here.

24. Future Bestselling Author Notebook

$5.99

I’m a big believer in the power of positive thinking. This is the most perfect gift for that. It’s 150 blank pages, but it’s exactly what you need to see when you sit down to write.

25. Lined Index Cards on a Ring

$13.99

So many writers and authors capture and organize their thoughts and words on index cards. That’s why author Jen Dodrill added lined index cards on a ring to her holiday wish list. This collection seemed to be the best value, but there are other options, including just white cards.

26. Writing Dice

$19.75

Overcome writer’s block with nine dice yielding thousands of combinations.

27. Affirmators! Creativity Deck

$13.71

Confession: This might be my favorite item on this list. I think that writers, more than anyone else, suffer from “imposter’s syndrome.” Every time you begin to doubt your ability while writing anything, whether it’s an article, a blog post, or a book chapter, pull a card from this deck with 50 affirmations. You deserve this support! 

28. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

$49.95 (Black Friday 50% off sale price)

This is the ultimate gift for writers working in any public location or distracted at home by TV or family noise. And think of how much more you’ll enjoy audiobooks without the rest of the world intruding!

29. Indie Bookstore Gift Card

Starting at $10

Support local independent bookstores by buying store gift cards for all the writers and readers on your list. Using Bookshop.org for this option lets your recipient give their local indie retailer purchase credit. Even better: Purchase a gift card for a local writer or reader directly from your local bookseller directly.

Phew! That’s quite a list isn’t it? But let’s expand it!

What gifts for writers and authors would you like to receive this holiday season? Please tell us in a comment!

*This year’s most over-used word. 

There’s nothing better on a very cold November weekend than watching a sappy, snowy Hallmark Christmas movie in front of a wood fire while searching online for the most writerly gifts ever for authors and writers.It’s a time-consuming process, one that takes me through more than one movie, but it’s also fun. And, to twist the title of the Blake Shelton/Gwen Stefani song, it makes it feel like Christmas!

Thanks to my searches plus wonderful suggestions from newsletter subscribers and members of the Build Book Buzz Book Marketing Group, I’ve been able to build a carefully curated, bespoke* holiday gift guide with a wide range of products and price points.

Start shopping (or better yet, share this link with someone who’s shopping for you)!

Writerly gifts that are sure to please

Click on each product name to get more information. Full disclosure: Some of the selections include affiliate links, which means we receive a small commission on sales but the cost to you is the same. Also, prices are subject to change.

Your favorite writerly gifts are listed in a totally random order.

1. Booktrovert long sleeve unisex tee

$30.99

I’ve purchased t-shirts from Piper & Ivy, a family-owned, eco-friendly, Florida company and will promise you that they are super soft (just how I like them!). I selected this shirt because it describes me and because it’s gender-neutral, so it’s a good choice for a woman or a man.

2. Take Me to Your Readers short sleeve unisex tee

$23.99

This is another super-soft Piper & Ivy t-shirt offered in a nice selection of softly neutral colors.

3. Vintage Typewriter Pencil Holder

$18.99

This could be my favorite because it’s just clever. If you – or the writer you’re shopping for – learned how to type on a typewriter, they need this in their writing space.

4. Dead Fred Pen Holder

$12

I was amused when I received this handsome young man as a thank you gift for speaking to a regional writer’s group. It’s an excellent stocking stuffer for your favorite writer (especially one who writes whodunits).

5. My Writing Planner

$9.99

Several authors told me they’d like to receive a writing planner, so I spent time scrolling through and studying the options. This is my favorite because it includes worksheets, templates, and calendars.

6. John Steinbeck Scented Soy Wax Candle

$22.09

I’ve selected the John Steinbeck candle option, but there are other literary figure options, including Charles Dickens and Jane Austen, when you move through the “color” options.

7. “Chapter One” and “The End” earrings

$12.66

These stainless steel, hypo-allergenic earrings will delight writers and readers alike.

8. Bamboo Lap Desk with Mouse Pad Tray

$59.95

I have two lap desks with cushions that I use in my office and elsewhere almost daily, often while editing on paper, but would like one that accommodates a mouse. I’m asking Santa for this; perhaps you’ll want to, also.

9. Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer

$13.49

Do you, like me, need a hot beverage in reach when you write? I have a similar model next to me on my desk right now. I’ve had it for years and years and years. If it breaks, I’ll replace it immediately – it’s that indispensable. You need one, too.

10. LiTEArary VarieTEA Sampler

$8.99 for 20 teabags

I drink these teas and they’re as good as any I’ve had (and more clever). This collection includes Agatha ChrisTEA, Shake Spearemint, and Mark Twainquility.

11. Reader Book Review Form

$29

Every author needs a copy of this form that helps readers write those all-important reader reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and other retail and review sites. There’s one for fiction and another for nonfiction.

12. Rolling Adjustable Height Laptop Cart

$86.70

You’ve heard that sitting all day while you write or work isn’t good for you, right? Before you spend a lot of money on a fancy stand-up desk, test the concept with this less expensive alternative.

13. Joyful Moose Library Due Date Blank Notecard Set

$17.99

These are the cutest notecards ever, aren’t they? I wish I had thought of this. Add them to someone’s stocking.

14. Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life

$15.81

A writer’s classic. Ask anyone who’s read it. That’s why it’s still a top-seller amost three decades after it was released.

15. ProWritingAid

Price depends on plan and starting at free; 50% off through November 28

ProWritingAid, one of the most popular writing aids for authors, is offering 50% off premium lifetime or yearly plans for Black Friday. When I surveyed authors last year for their favorite writing apps and tools, one told me, “Without it, I find it very difficult to locate all the little things, like split infinitives, comma splices, and variations in spelling between the UK and the U.S.”

16. Libro Audiobook Credit Bundles

Starting at $30 for two books, 10% off through November 28

I listen to an average of one audiobook a week, so I was thrilled when the folks at Libro offered me a three-book bundle to try it out. I’m hooked. It has the books I want and an app that’s easy to use, but the best part? Libro splits profits with bookstores, so you can help your favorite indie retailer stay in business. (And if you act quickly, you can save 10% during the Black Friday sale.)

17. Subscription to Online Course Platform Teachable

Price varies depending on plan and starting at free

I’m a huge fan of Teachable, a super easy-to-use online course platform that I use for all of my courses and e-books. If teaching an online course is in your future, you owe it to yourself to create an account there.

18. Aqua Notes Waterproof Note Pad

$13

Don’t let your best ideas go down the drain! If your brilliance strikes when you’re in the shower, write them down with Aqua Notes! The notepad attaches to the wall or door with suction cups and the paper is waterproof.

19. Time

$0

A Build Book Buzz Facebook group members said, “I think the best gift anyone can give a writer is time. Offer to bring them a meal, babysit their kids for a couple of hours, run errands.” And it won’t cost you a thing.

20. Scribd gift subscription

6 months $59.99, 12 months $119.00

Scribd subscribers can read and listen to the best audiobooks, e-books, magazines, and more.

21. Future Best Selling Author Notebook

$6.99

This is just a pad of lined paper with a cover, but I salute the optimism of that cover. It’s the right message to see when you sit down to write.

22. 365 Daily Book Marketing Tips

$1

Let me give your author a book marketing tip every day for a year via email — for just $1 for the entire year! It’s the gift that keeps on giving.

23. I Turn Coffee Into Books Mug

$14.95

Every author needs a cheeky mug. Make this one yours.

24. Character Keeper: A character development workbook for writers and creatives

$9.99

Keep track of all of your story’s characters in one place – names, descriptions, images – everything you need for as many as 50 characters. Genius, isn’t it?

25. Custom Miniature Book Earrings

$22.50

Turn your book – or your friend’s – into conversation-starting earrings! Simply provide the artist with a link to your book cover. (Act quickly — I’ve noticed that some of these have sold out.)

26. Mini Book Necklace

$15.77

After you order custom book earrings (above), purchase a matching pendant necklace to go with it. Or, select a classic cover from one of six options that include Little Women and The Wizard of Oz.

27. Bookish Socks

$9.95

“So many books. So little time.” Sound like your motto? These socks are adorable, but there are lots of other options, too. Scroll through them under “color.”

28. Indie bookstore gift certificate

Starting at $10

Support local independent bookstores by buying store gift cards for all the writers and readers on your list. I’ve linked to Bookshop.org, the hub for independent book shops online. Every purchase on the site financially supports independent bookstores, and you can select the store to buy from if you’d like.

29. Grammarly premium

$12/month (Watch for special Black Friday pricing)

This version of the popular Grammarly tool goes beyond grammar to help your favorite writer ensure that everything they write is clear, engaging, and professional.

30. Between the Pages canvas tote bag

$16.95

Tote your books and other items in a sturdy bag with a message every book lover will appreciate.

Bonus gift ideas

Here are two bonus gift ideas to include from our gift scouts, too!

Snowmen made from books

$67.20 for set of three (also available individually)

Aren’t they the cutest? And what a fun way to show how much you love books.

iPhone Photo Academy

$99 (sale price)

Of all the online courses I’ve taken, this one is probably my favorite. If you like taking photos with your iPhone, you’ll love the video tutorials, before-and-after examples, and assignments.

*This year’s most over-used word. 

What writerly gifts would you like to receive this holiday season? And what’s your favorite on this list? 

There’s nothing better on a very cold November weekend than watching a sappy, snowy Hallmark Christmas movie in front of a wood fire while searching online for the most writerly gifts ever for authors and writers.It’s a time-consuming process, one that takes me through more than one movie, but it’s also fun. And, to twist the title of the Blake Shelton/Gwen Stefani song, it makes it feel like Christmas!

Thanks to my searches plus wonderful suggestions from newsletter subscribers and members of the Build Book Buzz Book Marketing Group, I’ve been able to build a carefully curated, bespoke* holiday gift guide with a wide range of products and price points.

Start shopping (or better yet, share this link with someone who’s shopping for you)!

Writerly gifts that are sure to please

Click on each product name to get more information. Full disclosure: Some of the selections include affiliate links, which means we receive a small commission on sales but the cost to you is the same. Also, prices are subject to change.

Your favorite writerly gifts are listed in a totally random order.

1. Booktrovert long sleeve unisex tee

$30.99

I’ve purchased t-shirts from Piper & Ivy, a family-owned, eco-friendly, Florida company and will promise you that they are super soft (just how I like them!). I selected this shirt because it describes me and because it’s gender-neutral, so it’s a good choice for a woman or a man.

2. Take Me to Your Readers short sleeve unisex tee

$23.99

This is another super-soft Piper & Ivy t-shirt offered in a nice selection of softly neutral colors.

3. Vintage Typewriter Pencil Holder

$18.99

This could be my favorite because it’s just clever. If you – or the writer you’re shopping for – learned how to type on a typewriter, they need this in their writing space.

4. Dead Fred Pen Holder

$12

I was amused when I received this handsome young man as a thank you gift for speaking to a regional writer’s group. It’s an excellent stocking stuffer for your favorite writer (especially one who writes whodunits).

5. My Writing Planner

$9.99

Several authors told me they’d like to receive a writing planner, so I spent time scrolling through and studying the options. This is my favorite because it includes worksheets, templates, and calendars.

6. John Steinbeck Scented Soy Wax Candle

$22.09

I’ve selected the John Steinbeck candle option, but there are other literary figure options, including Charles Dickens and Jane Austen, when you move through the “color” options.

7. “Chapter One” and “The End” earrings

$12.66

These stainless steel, hypo-allergenic earrings will delight writers and readers alike.

8. Bamboo Lap Desk with Mouse Pad Tray

$59.95

I have two lap desks with cushions that I use in my office and elsewhere almost daily, often while editing on paper, but would like one that accommodates a mouse. I’m asking Santa for this; perhaps you’ll want to, also.

9. Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer

$13.49

Do you, like me, need a hot beverage in reach when you write? I have a similar model next to me on my desk right now. I’ve had it for years and years and years. If it breaks, I’ll replace it immediately – it’s that indispensable. You need one, too.

10. LiTEArary VarieTEA Sampler

$8.99 for 20 teabags

I drink these teas and they’re as good as any I’ve had (and more clever). This collection includes Agatha ChrisTEA, Shake Spearemint, and Mark Twainquility.

11. Reader Book Review Form

$29

Every author needs a copy of this form that helps readers write those all-important reader reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and other retail and review sites. There’s one for fiction and another for nonfiction.

12. Rolling Adjustable Height Laptop Cart

$86.70

You’ve heard that sitting all day while you write or work isn’t good for you, right? Before you spend a lot of money on a fancy stand-up desk, test the concept with this less expensive alternative.

13. Joyful Moose Library Due Date Blank Notecard Set

$17.99

These are the cutest notecards ever, aren’t they? I wish I had thought of this. Add them to someone’s stocking.

14. Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life

$15.81

A writer’s classic. Ask anyone who’s read it. That’s why it’s still a top-seller amost three decades after it was released.

15. ProWritingAid

Price depends on plan and starting at free; 50% off through November 28

ProWritingAid, one of the most popular writing aids for authors, is offering 50% off premium lifetime or yearly plans for Black Friday. When I surveyed authors last year for their favorite writing apps and tools, one told me, “Without it, I find it very difficult to locate all the little things, like split infinitives, comma splices, and variations in spelling between the UK and the U.S.”

16. Libro Audiobook Credit Bundles

Starting at $30 for two books, 10% off through November 28

I listen to an average of one audiobook a week, so I was thrilled when the folks at Libro offered me a three-book bundle to try it out. I’m hooked. It has the books I want and an app that’s easy to use, but the best part? Libro splits profits with bookstores, so you can help your favorite indie retailer stay in business. (And if you act quickly, you can save 10% during the Black Friday sale.)

17. Subscription to Online Course Platform Teachable

Price varies depending on plan and starting at free

I’m a huge fan of Teachable, a super easy-to-use online course platform that I use for all of my courses and e-books. If teaching an online course is in your future, you owe it to yourself to create an account there.

18. Aqua Notes Waterproof Note Pad

$13

Don’t let your best ideas go down the drain! If your brilliance strikes when you’re in the shower, write them down with Aqua Notes! The notepad attaches to the wall or door with suction cups and the paper is waterproof.

19. Time

$0

A Build Book Buzz Facebook group members said, “I think the best gift anyone can give a writer is time. Offer to bring them a meal, babysit their kids for a couple of hours, run errands.” And it won’t cost you a thing.

20. Scribd gift subscription

6 months $59.99, 12 months $119.00

Scribd subscribers can read and listen to the best audiobooks, e-books, magazines, and more.

21. Future Best Selling Author Notebook

$6.99

This is just a pad of lined paper with a cover, but I salute the optimism of that cover. It’s the right message to see when you sit down to write.

22. 365 Daily Book Marketing Tips

$1

Let me give your author a book marketing tip every day for a year via email — for just $1 for the entire year! It’s the gift that keeps on giving.

23. I Turn Coffee Into Books Mug

$14.95

Every author needs a cheeky mug. Make this one yours.

24. Character Keeper: A character development workbook for writers and creatives

$9.99

Keep track of all of your story’s characters in one place – names, descriptions, images – everything you need for as many as 50 characters. Genius, isn’t it?

25. Custom Miniature Book Earrings

$22.50

Turn your book – or your friend’s – into conversation-starting earrings! Simply provide the artist with a link to your book cover. (Act quickly — I’ve noticed that some of these have sold out.)

26. Mini Book Necklace

$15.77

After you order custom book earrings (above), purchase a matching pendant necklace to go with it. Or, select a classic cover from one of six options that include Little Women and The Wizard of Oz.

27. Bookish Socks

$9.95

“So many books. So little time.” Sound like your motto? These socks are adorable, but there are lots of other options, too. Scroll through them under “color.”

28. Indie bookstore gift certificate

Starting at $10

Support local independent bookstores by buying store gift cards for all the writers and readers on your list. I’ve linked to Bookshop.org, the hub for independent book shops online. Every purchase on the site financially supports independent bookstores, and you can select the store to buy from if you’d like.

29. Grammarly premium

$12/month (Watch for special Black Friday pricing)

This version of the popular Grammarly tool goes beyond grammar to help your favorite writer ensure that everything they write is clear, engaging, and professional.

30. Between the Pages canvas tote bag

$16.95

Tote your books and other items in a sturdy bag with a message every book lover will appreciate.

Bonus gift ideas

Here are two bonus gift ideas to include from our gift scouts, too!

Snowmen made from books

$67.20 for set of three (also available individually)

Aren’t they the cutest? And what a fun way to show how much you love books.

iPhone Photo Academy

$99 (sale price)

Of all the online courses I’ve taken, this one is probably my favorite. If you like taking photos with your iPhone, you’ll love the video tutorials, before-and-after examples, and assignments.

*This year’s most over-used word. 

What writerly gifts would you like to receive this holiday season? And what’s your favorite on this list? 

It’s my favorite time of the year, when I watch Hallmark holiday movies while searching the Internet for gifts that authors and writers will love.

This is the sixth year I’ve done this, and I got a little help with ideas this time. I used Help a Reporter Out (HARO), a service that helps journalists find sources.

I was able to use about one-quarter of the nearly 40 responses generated by my HARO query. That help, combined with my own digging around, yielded 29 excellent ideas for you, a writer friend, or someone in your writing group.

You’ll find a wide range of gift types and prices. Start shopping!

Gifts that authors and writers will love

Click on each product name to get more information. Full disclosure: Some of the selections include affiliate links, which means we receive a small commission on sales but the cost to you is the same. To keep it simple, presume they all have affiliate links. Also, prices are subject to change (I’ve seen changes in the past 48 hours!). 

1. Cute and colorful book socks 

This company has a really nice collection of bright and colorful socks for book lovers. There are several options at this Amazon link, and more on the manufacturer’s Happypop brand site, where there’s a 20 percent off Black Friday sale.

$6.99

2. Punny teas

As a tea drinker, I love these LiTEAry teas. Options include Agatha ChrisTEA and Mark Twainquility.

$8.99 for 20 teabags

3. Author t-shirt  

Tell the world you’re an author by wearing your job title on a t-shirt. You can find a lot of “author” t-shirts online, but I like the simplicity of this one and the “Ask me about my book!” message on the back. Pick your own style and color; sizes run a little small.

Basic t-shirt, $24.25

4. The Courage Habit

This guide helps creative professionals – you – to create courage as a brain-based habit, leading to everything writers need to find success: confidence, progress towards goals, and emotional resilience.

$13.84

5. Reader Book Review Form

Every author needs a copy of my fill-in-the-blanks form that helps readers write those all-important reader reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and other retail and review sites. There’s one for fiction and another for nonfiction.

$9 for one, $17 for both fiction and nonfiction forms

6. Aqua Notes Waterproof Note Pad

Back by popular demand! If you’re like me and get your best ideas in the shower, you need this.

$9.50

7. How Your Story Sets You Free

A great choice for memoirists, this guide teaches you how to share your experiences and invaluable knowledge with the people who need it most, whether it be in a book, blog post, motivational speech, or conversation.

$10.99

8. Prospek blue light glasses  

We’ve all heard plenty about the potential for harm from blue light emitted by digital devices. Reduce eye strain and headaches with computer glasses.

Starting at $38.45

9. Literary Places

A travel journalist provides comprehensive and atmospheric outlines of the history and culture of 25 literary places around the globe, as well as how they intersect with the lives of the authors and the works that make them significant. Full-page color illustrations instantly transport you to each location.

$14.85

10. Marble notebook

For the writer who has everything.

Starting at $85

11. 1,000 Books to Read Before You Die Page-a-Day Calendar 2020

With the insight of a bookseller and the enthusiasm of a devoted reader, James Mustich shares hundreds of titles that range from the obscure to the immortal, the ancient to the contemporary. This is definitely going on my wish list!

$11.70

12. AuthorLab

Save your favorite author time with an AuthorLab membership. AuthorLab is an all-in-one author platform with industry-leading software, tools, templates, and training videos for book covers, layouts, websites, and promotional materials. .

$29/month or $199 annually (get 50% off with my coupon code, AuthorLab50)

13. 365 Daily Book Marketing Tips  

Let me give your author a book marketing tip every day for a year via email — for just 99 cents for the entire year! It’s the gift that keeps on giving.

$.99 (yes, 99 cents for all 365 tips)

14. Grammarly premium  

This version of the popular Grammarly tool goes beyond grammar to help your favorite writer ensure that everything they write is clear, engaging, and professional.

$29.95/month, $19.98/month quarterly, $11.66/month annually

15. Noocaf Focus coffee  

Writers need two things to succeed: caffeine, and the ability to focus. This unique dark coffee blend does both by adding nootropics – substances that might improve memory, creativity, and motivation.

$32 for 12 oz.

16. Writer travel mug

Keep that Noocaf coffee hot in this book-themed stainless steel travel mug. What a great stocking stuffer!

$23.99

17. Notebook with super powers

Now the author who likes to compose in a notebook and edit on the computer can bridge the analog and digital worlds. Write on Optik Paper, then download the companion free Scribzee app to scan, save, organize, share, and access notes at any time, from any place.

$9.99

18. Handwoven book necklace

A mother/daughter duo handcrafts this seed bead necklace on an 18-inch silver-plated chain. The pair donates 10 percent of the profits to the House of Heroes, an organization that helps repair and improve the homes of military and public safety veterans who need help.

$40

19. “Careful or you’ll end up in my novel” bracelet  

The adjustable bracelet made of stainless steel fits anyone and comes with a polishing cloth. It’s packaged in a gift bag.

$13.99

20. WordSmith Deck

Get 100 intellectually stimulating writing prompt cards designed to inspire journaling, cure writer’s block, cultivate creative writing, and sharpen writing skills.

$19.99

21. Multi-tasking Lap Desk with USB Light

I liked my plain, ordinary, nothing special lap desk that I use on the porch in the summer until I saw this beauty. In addition to a nice little tablet slot, it has a slide out mouse deck with a smartphone slot.

$48.24

22. Smartphone external battery pack 

I love this portable iPhone external battery – I never travel without it. Whether you get this brand or another (Anker also has lighter options with less power), I recommend an external battery pack not only for travel, but for pesky power outages. (Stuff happens.)

$49.99

23. You are a great, great author mug

All politics aside, this should be your motto. If it’s a gift for someone else, tell them this is exactly what you think of them. Motivate them while making them smile. We all need both, hugely.

$14.95

24. R-E-A-D bunting 

Add this simple garland to your favorite author’s stocking while supporting an independent artist.

$11

25. Apple AirPods

I had a pair of knock-off, $20 wireless earbuds until my family felt so sorry for me that they bought me the real thing for my birthday. These truly are a must-have for any book lover who listens to audiobooks all the time, as I do. I’m no longer tethered to my phone with a cord when I’m walking, doing housework, or cooking.

Splurge on this pair or, if you don’t have an iPhone, get the equivalent for your phone. For me, they are almost as life-changing as my DVR.

$134

26. Library Card Zipper Pouch 

How cute is this old-school library card zipper bag? It’s perfect for the baby boomer on your list. Scroll through all of the other options on the page, too. There’s one for every kind of book lover.

$12.00

27. I’d Rather Be Reading Tote

Wouldn’t this make a good book club gift? Side and bottom gussets mean it will hold a lot of books – or anything else. Click through to the second picture to see all of the colors available for this strong canvas tote.

$22.50

28. Author earrings

Here’s a subtle way to say, “I’m a writer.” They’re a great stocking stuffer or Secret Santa gift.

$10.37

29. The Celebrity Black Book 2019

Does your favorite author want a celebrity endorsement for their book cover? This resource has verified mailing addresses for more than 56,000 celebrities, influencers, and public figures worldwide.

$97

More gift ideas

We have many more ideas in previous gift guides. They include “27 of the best gifts EVER for authors and writers” and “Gifts for authors and writers: 25 perfect, hand-picked ideas.”

You’re certain to find just the right gifts in any of these guides.

Now it’s your turn! If you use or enjoy something that would make a great holiday gift for an author or writer, tell us about it in a comment.

Retailers are offering more and more deals well before the Friday after Thanksgiving, so shopping on that formerly magical day is less necessary and even less appealing.

What’s more, the marketplace is crowded. You’d be hard-pressed to find a retailer that isn’t participating in some form, both instore and online.

There’s too much noise around Black Friday for me and other people with books and other products to sell. I recently turned down two opportunities to participate in group Black Friday promotions because it’s hard for small players like us to break through.

But the fact that everyone else is so focused on Black Friday (whether it makes sense for them or not) leaves Cyber Monday wide open for you.

More people are shopping online on Cyber Monday

This is good news because Cyber Monday — November 26 this year — is getting a bigger share of the e-tailing crowd.

According to the National Retail Federation, 81 million people shopped online on Cyber Monday in 2017 while 66 million did so on Cyber Monday. BestBlackFriday.com is predicting that the Cyber Monday number will increase to 95 million this year.

In addition, a Deloitte study reports that this year, while 44 percent of people will shop on Black Friday, 53 percent will do their online spending on Cyber Monday.

Don’t you want a piece of that?

How to use this for holiday book marketing

How can you leverage this huge online shopping event in your holiday book marketing plan? Here are a few suggestions.

1. Get thee on Amazon.

You know . . . on the off chance you aren’t there already.

This is important because NetElixir predicts that Amazon will be getting 40 percent of the online holiday sales this year. That haul is worth $38.8 billion.

How does that compare to other online retail sites? Last year, all the other online retailers sold a combined $3.6 billion. Ahem.

2. Drop your book’s price on Cyber Monday.

Price it at $.99 — that’s a deal price for most books.

If your publisher controls the price, talk about doing a price drop now. Don’t wait.

3. Promote your deal price.

Use email — tell your newsletter subscribers about it.

Shopify reports that last year, email marketing brought in more buyers to that site than other lead-generating options — search engines, typing in the URL directly, and social media.

Send messages in advance and again on Cyber Monday. People often need to be reminded a couple of times before they take action.

Work to get your special price offer into book deal newsletters.

Advertise on Amazon and, if it makes sense for your book, Facebook.

To support your social media efforts, create a deal price graphic that you can share with your Amazon sales page link.

Remember that people are often shopping for gifts. If your book makes a good gift — and you can explain why — play that up in your promotional campaign.

Make a choice

More people are going to be shopping online on Cyber Monday than on Black Friday. Rather than split your efforts between the two, pick one and focus on it.

Make that choice Cyber Monday. People will have their credit cards out . . . and they will want to use them. Take advantage of that.

Are you planning a Black Friday or Cyber Monday sale, deal, or promotion? Tell us about it in a comment. 

I hope that this month, you will give or receive a book for Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Festivus, or for any other holiday or occasion (or already have).

Books truly do keep on giving as they’re read and re-read or passed along to others.

It’s not too late to visit a local independent or chain bookstore or big box retailer to buy a book for anyone of any age. Don’t forget about gift cards, too! Because you can purchase and send them digitally, it’s so easy to let your recipient select the book of their choice.

Turn to Google for inspiration

Need ideas for books that will make great gifts? Google will help!

Googling “books for mystery lovers” got me to this Pinterest page with soooo many covers.

Searching for the best children’s books led me to a helpful article on Parents.com, “Parents’ 10 Best Children’s Books of 2017.”

Buzzfeed Books is a wonderful resource. How about “43 Books You Won’t Be Able to Stop Talking About?”

My own favorite source is the “Popular Book Club Books” list on Goodreads. Never disappoints.

And, of course, you probably know authors with books that will make great gifts. (Even better if you can get one signed.)

For example, I participated in a Secret Santa Facebook name draw this year with a large group of people I don’t know.  A quick look at the Facebook profile for the woman whose name I drew revealed that she’s an avid runner, so how could I not get her my friend Jen Miller’s popular memoir, Running: A Love Story?

Books are the best gifts year-round

This is the gift-giving season, but it’s not the only time of the year you’ll need to give a gift.

The next time you want to give the perfect Valentine’s Day, birthday, graduation, bridal shower, Father’s Day, or Mother’s Day present, look for a book.

You’ll enjoy searching for the just the right choice. And you just might introduce the recipient to something new, interesting, or exciting.

Would your book make a great gift? Tell us why and provide a link in a comment. 

From jewelry designed especially for authors to gift cards and courses, you’ll find something here that your author or writer will love.

You’ll also find 32 more ideas from last year, and another 29 from the year before.

Start shopping now!

Click on each product name to get more information. Full disclosure: Many of the selections include affiliate links, which means we receive a small commission on sales. To keep it simple, presume they all have affiliate links. Also, prices are subject to change (I’ve seen changes in 48 hours!). 

2. Website URL and hosting

Authors and writers must have a website. Make sure your gift recipient can get the “write” URL at a 30 percent discount. I use GoDaddy for URLs (they offer site hosting, too), and use HostGator for my website hosting. Get a 25 percent discount with coupon code CJSAVE25.

Prices vary

3. Writing is My Superpower T-shirt

People who aren’t writers are impressed with people who are. You might as well reinforce that impression with this honest gift.

$15.99

$24.995. Book Marketing Coaching

Let me guide your author with an hour of telephone coaching time focused on his or her specific book.

$150 for one hour

6. Moo.com gift cards 

Use a Moo.com gift card to pay for business cards, postcards, and other custom-designed and printed book marketing materials. 

Price = how much you want to spend

7. Writer in Residence Door Hanger

Nothing says “I’m a writer” like a door hanger! These are hand-decorated using pages from classic literature and strung with biodegradable jute twine.

$13.72

8. Typewriter Pillow Cover (pillow not included)

Can’t you picture this in any writer’s home office? Note that it’s available in three sizes and doesn’t include the pillow. (You can get a pillow insert at a craft or fabric store or at Target.)

$38+

9. 365 Daily Book Marketing Tips

Let me give your author a book marketing tip every day for a year via email — for just 99 cents for the entire year! It’s the gift that keeps giving.

$.99 (yes, 99 cents for all 365 tips)

10. Typewriter Coasters

Beverages not included.

$13.40

11. Keep Clam and Proofread Mug

Get it?       

$12.96

12. Author Marketing Club Membership

Authors need reader reviews and an Author Marketing Club membership includes access to the very cool “Reviewer Grabber Tool” that helps them find and reach Amazon reviewers. Membership also includes access to other essential tools, free training, and a wonderful author community.

$24.95 per month or save 50 percent with the $149 annual plan

This suitable-as-a-stocking-stuffer gift is a very, very important reminder for every author and writer.

$4.99

14. Typewriter Key Charm Bracelet

I love this! Colors are neutral, so women can wear it with anything.

$48.95

Every author needs the inspiration of this laser-engraved oak clock hanging over the desk.

$59

16. The Artists’ and Writers’ Cookbook: A Collection of Stories with Recipes

You don’t have to be a cookbook author to love this.

$20.40

3 months $44.99

I write all day and don’t know what I’d do without something like this. Save your writer’s mousing arm with this gift.

Try out a standing desk without a big investment. This adjustable device that sets on top of an existing desk is an affordable alternative to a full-on standing desk.

20. Scrivener Software

Authors swear by this software that helps them organize their throughts and makes the book-writing process easier. (I bought it, but haven’t tried it yet. )

$40 

21. Dixit Storytelling Game

Improve your storytelling skills and have fun at the same time with this game.

$27.99

22. Steampunk Bookends

Every writer and author I know is also a serious reader. You have to hold those books in place with something, right?

$89

23. Typewriter Birthstone Earrings

It’s not enough that this is a clever idea and they’re pretty. They’re also handmade!

$17.85

24. Book Club Wine Glasses

You don’t need to be in a book club to appreciate these glasses . . . but wouldn’t they make the perfect gift for your book club Secret Santa name draw?

$23.14

Course fees vary

Now it’s your turn! What author-related gift do you want to receive? What gift would you recommend to our readers?

Tip of the Month

I like to share a “Tip of the Month,” a free resource or tool for authors, on the last Wednesday of the month.

This month, let’s look ahead to 2018 with these fun calendars to color from SarahTitus.com.

Coloring can be therapeutic.  So can planning for success in the coming year by scheduling your book marketing activities on a calendar. But first, download Sarah’s printable calendar pages to color, and block out a little time to color with pencils, markers, or crayons in the most mindless way possible! You deserve it.

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for a friend, you’re certain to find just the right gift on this list below or on last year’s gifts for authors list.

Have fun shopping!

Click on each product name to get more information.

Under $20

1. Quotation mark earrings

What a great stocking stuffer! (I want them.)

$3.99

2. “I’m silently correcting your grammar” mug

This is SO me. (And I apologize for that.)

$14.00

3. 365 Daily Book Marketing Tips

Get a daily book marketing tip delivered by email every day for a whole year for less than a dollar for all 365 tips.

$.99

4. Born to Write Necklace

This is a nice stocking stuffer or “under $10” gift for a woman in your writer’s group.

$3.99

5. Library Card Socks

Back by popular demand: Socks that remind you of those library cards we used to see stuck in the front of books.

$10.00 – $13.94

6. Banned Books Socks

Another repeat from last year because these were so popular — for each pair purchased, a book is donated to a community in need.

$10.00 – $12.95

7. Vintage Typewriter Smartphone Case

This is probably the coolest smartphone case I’ve seen. Make sure you get the right case for your phone — there are several options.

$15.99

8. Aqua Notes Waterproof Notepad

I get my best ideas in the shower. Maybe your author friends do, too!

$7.63

9. Author Charm Necklace

Every woman who writes books should announce it with a necklace.

$19.99

10. Next Novel Journal

Perfect to write in while working in a coffee shop.

$9.99

11. Writer Travel Mug

You can’t have too many insulated travel mugs. This one is stainless steel.

$14.99

12. More Books, Less Sleep Earrings

This is a great gift for somebody who likes to read as much as she likes to write.

$16.00

13. Writer Emergency Pack

I’d add chocolate.

$19

14. Writer’s Block

The perfect gift for the writer who has everything. (Shakespeare approved.)

$9

15. “Ask Me About My Book” T-shirts

These conversation-starters designed by my author friend Flora Brown were a big hit last year.

$19.95

16. The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression 

I hear great things about this top-selling resource for novelists.

$4.99 – $12.19

17. “Have I Mentioned Lately That I Write Books?” T-shirt

How’s this for a conversation starter?

$19.99

18. Novelist at Work Warning Sign

Afix it to the top of your laptop when writing at a coffee shop or put it on your workspace door when you don’t want to be interrupted.

$8.99

19. Silver Writer Heart Necklace

Win her heart with this lovely gift.

$13.99

20. Vintage Writing Diary and Journal

Wouldn’t you love to record your thoughts in a faux-leather, refillable journal? You can get this one in a nice range of colors.

21. Novel Teas

These English Breakfast teabags are tagged with literary quotes. What a novelty!

$14.95 

22. Knock Knock Personal Library Kit

Here’s the perfect gift for the author who is always lending books . . . and never seeing them again.

$10.61

More than $20

23. The Writer’s Toolbox

Everyone needs inspiration now and then.

$24.95

24. “I read banned books” tote bag

They come in different sizes and are priced accordingly.

$18 to $24

25. Library card tote bag

You probably have to be a certain age to appreciate this 16″ x 16″ bag. I am . . . and I love it.

$22.00

26. The Storymatic Classic kit

Six trillion stories in one little box.

$29.95

27. “I’m Plotting Against You” Hoodie

This will keep your friends honest.

$55.99

28. Donate to Boy’s Book-related Nonprofit Fundraising Campaign

Help young Dylan Siegel, author of the Chocolate Bar book, raise funds to save his friend’s life.

$25.00 starting point

29. Mr. Darcy Proposal Scarf

Do you know someone who loves Pride and Prejudice? Check out the other related scarfs at that link, too.

$38.00

30. Build Book Buzz Training Programs

Whether the author in your life needs to learn how to rock it on Amazon, snag cover endorsements, or learn book marketing from start to finish, there’s a thorough and helpful training program for it in our online store.

Prices range from $.99 to $79

31. Amazon Gift Cards

Oh, the books your friend can buy with a gift card! Be sure to select the correct amount before adding the card to your cart.

Prices vary

32. Learn Scrivener Fast (affiliate link)

Writers rave about Scrivener. Give the ultimate gift: instruction on how to use it.

$127 – $297

You won’t go wrong with any of these.

What gift would you recommend (other than your own book, of course)? Please comment with other suggestions!

This year, instead of promoting your own books as holiday gifts, give back to your author community by working to promote your friends’ books.

Your author friends will appreciate the support while you enjoy the good feeling that comes with helping them reach new readers.

Here are five ideas to get you started.

1. Write a blog post listing your favorite books for 2016.

Since most authors are also big readers, this shouldn’t be too hard.

Be honest with your list. Maybe it includes a  mix of new books and books written decades ago that you read for the first time this year. Perhaps all of the books on your list were released this year. What counts is that you enjoyed reading them.

You can approach this in any way you want — but do a friend a favor by including his or her book on your favorites list.

2. Write a newsletter article about books you’re giving as gifts this year.

Many authors support the profession by giving books as gifts — why not make your gift list public? Share it with your email subscribers, and be certain to explain why each book is on your gift list.

3. Do a Facebook Live interview with an author friend.

This works when your author friend is local and you can get together in person for the broadcast.

If your author friends aren’t local, use Facebook Live to offer several holiday gift book reviews and recommendations over the next few weeks — and make sure at least one of the recommended books was written by a friend.

4. Create a “Books I Love” Pinterest board.

Pin book covers with links to their Amazon sales pages. In the “description” section for each image, tell people why you love the book.

5. Host a Twitter chat with an author friend.

Make sure you promote the chat in advance so people know when it will happen. Share your Twitter handle and your guest’s so people can search and find the conversation. Give the event a hashtag and share that with you networks, too.

It truly is better to give than to receive. This year, make your author friends the beneficiaries of your generosity.

Please add to this list. What else can you do in the next few weeks to help boost your friends’ book sales during the holiday season? 

Tip of the Month

I always share a “Tip of the Month,” a free resource or tool for authors, on the last Wednesday of the month.

If you have a smartphone, you probably use apps. One of my favorites is “Agent Obvious,” a collection of more than 500 tips and words of wisdom from literary agent Laurie Abkemeier.

Here’s just one example: “Don’t trash talk the competition in a proposal. Inevitably, people who worked on those books will read it.”

Download Agent Obvious for iPhones in the Apple app store.

Wondering what to buy the author in your life (or yourself) this holiday season?

I asked author friends in the Build Book Buzz Facebook Group for their thoughts on gifts for authors; they recommended everything from a review of the author’s book to alcohol to printing services for bookmarks and postcards to a gym membership for a healthy escape from the keyboard.

Several suggested specific products, as well. I’ve incorporated some of them here along with those I uncovered through research. It’s worth noting, too, that a few of these came from a retailer I discovered when its Instagram account followed the Build Book Buzz account on that social network. Until then, I had never heard of the company. Social media can make a difference!

Here are a few fun and special ideas that are sure to generate a heartfelt “Thank you!” from any author you know.

Click on each product name to get more information.

Under $20

1. Let’s Eat Grandma, Commas Saves Lives T-shirt

This one’s for the grammarian in your life.

$19.95

2. Internet Grammar is Ruining Everything Mug

I happen to agree with this.

$16.00

3. Old Books Fragrance Soy Candle

The scent of an old book can rekindle many memories.

$14.98

4. Olde Book Pillow Classics

Choose Alice in Wonderland, Sherlock Holmes, or Treasure Island and enjoy sweet dreams.

$17.99-24.995. Library Card Socks

Remember library cards stuck in the front of books? They’re gone, but not forgotten, when you wear these socks.

$10.00

6. Banned Books Socks

For each pair purchased, a book is donated to a community in need.

$10.00

7. Library Card Phone Case

I love this case! Make sure you get the right size for the phone.

$9.99

8. Poe-Ka-Dot Tote

Don’t you love a good play on words?

$17.95

9. Real Writers Refrigerator Magnet

What a fun stocking stuffer!

$4.99

10. Stories Yet to be Written Journal

Some authors might need more than one.

$9.99

11. Writer Mug

There’s no mystery here.

$9.95

12. Write Here, Write Now Mousepad

For those who need the reminder.

$9.99

13. Your Fingers Tap Dance Print

This lovely framed poem print makes the process seem almost magical.

$18

14. Writer’s Block

For the writer with a sense of humor.

$1515. “Ask Me About My Book” T-shirts

These conversation-starters were designed by my author friend Flora Brown.

$19.95

16. Do Not Annoy the Writer Mug

Want to be a character in a book? Annoy the writer.

$12.95

17. Romance Novelists Do It Between the Sheets Tote Bag

Of course they do.

$13.95

18. Library and Books Pendant Necklace

This is so pretty!

$16.00

19. Ask Me About My Books Keychain

It’s the perfect stocking stuffer.

$10

More than $20

20. Folded Paper Tea Cup

Act quickly if you like this book folded into the shape of a teacup because there’s only one of them.

$25.00

21. T-shirts Created From the Text of Your Favorite Books

Choose from books in 13 categories.

$34.00

22. I Read Past My Bedtime Framed Print

I do this. Do you?

$31.00

23. Book iPhone Case

This classy iPhone case doubles as a wallet that can hold credit cards, a driver’s license, and cash.

$59.99

24. Professional Bookworm Hoodie

Pair this with pajama bottoms and you’ve got a writing uniform.

$42.00

25. Just One More Chapter Laptop Sleeve

Perfect for those marathon coffee shop sessions.

$36.00

26. Wake Me When I’m Published Pajamas

For women only; check out the pattern options for the bottoms, too.

$34.95

27. Build Book Buzz Training Programs

Whether the author in your life needs to learn how to rock it on Amazon, snag cover endorsements, or learn book marketing from start to finish, there’s a thorough and helpful training program for it in our online store.

Prices range from $9 to $79

28. Scrivener

Scrivener software puts everything you need for structuring, writing, and editing long documents at your fingertips.

$40-45

29. Amazon Gift Cards

Oh, the books your friend can buy with a gift card!

Prices vary 

You won’t go wrong with any of these.

What gift would you recommend (other than your own book, of course)? Add to the list in a comment. 

Tip of the Month

Writing a headline for your book’s sales page on your website — or any other type of headline? Give the “Headline Generator” tool a try.

You might have to play around with it to get the results you need. And, even if you don’t get just the right headline, what the software churns out might be a good starting point, giving you something to tweak until it’s just right.

I’ve used this, and the experience has reminded me of the book cover design process: I can’t do it myself, but I know what I like when I see it.