By: Christa Protano
Do you celebrate Christmas is July? Personally, I tend to mark the occasion somehow with my kids. But these days, any excuse to gather together as a family or just the grown-ups is a welcome distraction from our challenging times. So whether you are throwing your own festive cocktail party or just received an invite to a merry brunch, chances are you’ll need something to gift this summer. Here are five books for those who made your “nice” list.
For the Maker
Christmas in July is the perfect time to give -- or receive -- Disney: The Nightmare Before Christmas Crochet. Complete with step-by-step instructions, crochet hook, colorful yarn and embroidery thread, this activity kit shows you how to crochet Jack Skellington and his Pumpkin Queen Sally. Instructions are also included for other Tim Burton characters, so you can practice your knitting skills and get a jump on those DIY gifts in time for the official December holidays.
For the Entertainer
If you’ve been invited to a Christmas in July-themed party, Jane Austen’s Table makes the perfect hostess gift. Inspired by the author who’s name is synonymous with Regency Romance, this book features easy-to-follow recipes for eye-catching starters, tasty curries, and elegant desserts guaranteed to make the next holiday soiree or weekend brunch unforgettable.
For the Creative Type
This July, why not surprise that friend who has great taste with a pretty adult coloring book? We recommend the Joy & Hope Coloring Book — the cover alone is coffee-table worthy! What’s more, this title is an instant mood booster thanks to 200-plus uplifting images of nature scenes, geometric patterns, and majestic animals. Don’t forget the colored pencils.
For the Innovator
Do you have a friend or family member who is always looking for or pitching the next big thing? Then perhaps 1001 Ideas That Change the Way We Think will be their next source of inspiration. With just under 1000 pages, this title takes a deep dive into the ancient and modern innovations that have revolutionized how we experience the world, from the ability to control fire to clean energy.
For the Christmas Obsessed
If Buddy the Elf makes an appearance in your family room multiple times a year, then someone in your house will surely love the Christmas Coloring Book and Word Search. This title is fun for all ages, with plenty of reindeer names to look for and a mix of holiday-inspired coloring pages.
