Need a unique gift for a family at Christmas? Want to encourage a love of books? Fans of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings will be delighted to discover Tolkien’s Letters from Father Christmas. This illustrated book is a compilation of the letters Father Christmas sent to Tolkien’s children from 1920-1943. The story chronicles the adventures of Santa and his friends in the North Pole, especially a lovable and accident-prone polar bear. The photographs of the original letters are included along with the illustrations that accompanied them. The stories are enjoyable on their own merit, but the historical context adds an interesting layer of subtext. I can imagine a family reading these aloud to everyone’s enjoyment.

If you’re looking for complimentary gifts, consider a stuffed polar bear and traditional British crackers.  For those unfamiliar, the crackers (pictured above) are held on the ends by two friends. The friends pull apart, the paper tears making a cracking sound, and inside the friends discover goodies (toys, candies, paper hats, etc).  World Market carries a large selection of Christmas crackers.  Any family would be lucky to get such an amazing book themed Christmas gift.

Attending a holiday party and want a bookish gift for your host? Consider this literary care package and sign up for the newsletter below for your free eguide to gifting books.