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The 35 Best Gifts for Writers, According to, Well, Writers

By Sarah Madaus

If you have a writer in your life, you know that writing is the activity that brings them equal amounts of joy and dread. The best gifts for writers exist to make the joyful part even sweeter and the dreadful part a little less so. Sometimes the solution to helping a writer produce their best work is nixing an uncomfortable desk chair , upgrading their crusty headphones from 2013, receiving a meal kit to make cooking less time-consuming, or giving them a motivational journal to write in. And who better to present you with writerly gift ideas than staffers at a magazine? 

Whether they're an aspiring writer, a full-time one, or just a habitual journal-er, finding a present that relates to their passion almost guarantees that it'll be appreciated—and actually used. We're slowly closing in on the start of the holiday season, so corralling your gifts now means you have less to stress about when the season does arrive, and more time to think about what matters: Family , friends, and whatever the news cycle has for us.

Below, we've rounded up the best gifts for writers to peruse ahead of the holidays because it's never too early. We've included practical gifts to aid their writing process (like some of our favorite pens and laptop stands), self-care essentials to soothe their mind and body, and items to get the creative juices flowing (like a MasterClass subscription and book of writing prompts). No matter what kind of writer they are, you’re sure to find something on this list that fits.

For more present picks, check out all of the best gift ideas of 2022 .

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Bose Noise-Cancelling Headphones 700

When it comes to writing, reaching a flow state is key—and often quite difficult. A pair of top-rated noise-cancelling headphones like these from Bose (which several SELF editors own) can be used to block out distractions or pipe in calming beats . These connect through Bluetooth, so they won't have to worry about unruly wires.

Mark & Graham Leather Charger Roll-Up

Mark & Graham

This pretty, space-saving roll-up has one large pocket and two smaller ones to stash and organize all of their chargers, pens, earbuds , and the like. It comes in seven jewel-tone color options, and you can add their monogram for a personalized touch.

Zebra Mildliner Dual-Tip Creative Marker

SELF's editor-in-chief Rachel Wilkerson-Miller likes using these bright, colorful pens to make writing in her planner and journal more vibrant. These have fine tips that work for adding splashes of color to their compositions, but they are also versatile enough to use for filling in those adult coloring books .

Ember Mug² Temperature Control Smart Mug

This self-heating, rechargeable smart coffee mug is our senior commerce writer Sara Coughlin's morning go-to . After initial reluctance to try the elaborate mug, she now recommends it enthusiastically, writing, “If you’re someone who knows that tea and coffee have their own sacred temperatures or hate coming back to a tepid drink after briefly leaving it alone, this could make an excellent treat for yourself.”

By Sara Coughlin

By Jessica Kasparian

By Katie Camero

Trade Coffee Subscription

Trade Coffee

We recommended Trade's coffee subscription for java enthusiasts who make their coffee at home and are interested in exploring different roasters across the US. It lets the recipient customize the type (and grind) of coffee they prefer and how often each bag arrives. The site also allows you to add a short note to your subscription delivery if you’d like to personalize it. Luckily, because the beans deliver to their door, they'll never need to leave the house if they run out of caffeine mid-writing.

Cost: Gift subscriptions start at $40 for two bags.

642 Tiny Things to Write About by the San Fransisco Writers' Grotto

For any creative writer who could use a touch of inspiration (or a cure for writer's block), this miniature book has 642 potential solutions. Each of the writing prompts asks for bite-sized answers that spark larger storylines. Take these two examples: “Boil down Hamlet , Shakespeare's longest play, into a tweet,” and “Describe your first kiss. Describe your most recent kiss. Describe your next kiss.”

Everlane The Felted Merino Half-Zip Sweater

What's a voracious author without a signature look? This oversized wool half-zip is snuggly enough for cold-weather layering and gives a writerly, bookish vibe.

Available in sizes XXS to XL.

Fringe x Megan Galante Odette Pencil Pouch

Anthropologie

This roomy pencil case, conceptualized by an artist and textile designer, is a nice gift for writers of all ages (not just grade-school ones). For an extra touch, fill up the pencil case with their favorite pens, pencils, highlighters, and a surprise note.

Airbnb Gift Card

If their local coffee shop isn't inspiring them the way it used to, an Airbnb gift card can pay for a solo weekend writer's retreat to a cabin in the mountains, lakeside A-frame, bright beach home, or even a potential setting for their novel.

Madewell The Canvas Transport Carryall Tote Bag

A handsome tote makes schlepping their laptop, writing accessories, latest read , snacks, and headphones a little bit easier. It's made of canvas with leather straps and has a small internal pocket so they won't have to fish around for their keys and cards.

Papier Scallop Spine Daily Planner

This undated, 16-week daily planner makes a thoughtful gift for any writer who could benefit from a place to keep their thoughts, deadlines, and the rest of their life organized . It features a mind map page, plus goal setting and reflection, and spots for each day and week. Since it's undated, they can start anytime throughout the year (or even use it as a journal).

Muji Gel Ink Cap Type Ballpoint Pen

Sorry not sorry, but sometimes a basic set of pens is more practical than a fountain pen. (And this is coming from an avid writer!) This pen from Muji comes recommended by Condé Nast staffer and "chronic journal-er" Soleil Summer, who says, “They’re affordable, straightforward, and they dry relatively quickly on most kinds of paper/finishes. The ink is quite consistent as well.”

Byredo Bibliothèque Candle

A candle that channels the scent of their favorite library—old books, dog-eared pages, worn leather, and smooth paper—is one of the best writing gifts you can give. It has warm notes of plum, pear, vanilla, leather, and patchouli to accompany and inspire their late-night scrawling.

Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager

The future best-selling author in your life likely needs some neck and shoulder relief after hunching over their computer all day. We love this space-saving massager , which has eight kneading nodes and a function to add soothing heat. They can also wear it while they work.

MasterClass Gift Card

MasterClass

With a gift card to MasterClass, they can get all kinds of screenwriting, essay tips, and creative writing advice from writers like Judy Blume (pictured above), R.L. Stine, Roxane Gay, and Dan Brown. You can choose from a few different gift options , with plans starting at $10 per month.

Vitruvi Cozy Bundle Stone Diffuser and Kit

Essential oils can help relax, uplift, soothe, and inspire—and they smell good. This diffuser and oil set from Vitruvi doubles as decor and comes with four “cozy-inspired" oils for grounding, comforting, and refreshing the writer on your list.

Cushion Lab Patented Pressure Relief Seat Cushion

Lumbar pain does not fuel authors to successfully write the next great American novel, as far as we know. This season, gift them this handy ergonomic pillow that transforms any old chair into one that cradles their hips and thighs, making prolonged sitting a bit more tolerable. (They should still get up and stretch though.)

iDiskk Auto-Timer Cell Phone Lock Box

A phone lockbox is the perfect gift for anyone who, when faced with writer's block or impending deadlines, tends to pick up their phone and doomscroll on social media . It has an automatic timer (from 1 minute up to 99 hours) and holes for emergency calls and sending messages.

Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook

While we do love a good leather journal , there's something to be said for a reusable notebook that sends their scrawls straight to their phone, tablet, or computer. This innovative 32-page notebook is compatible with Pilot Frixion pens and wipes clean with a cloth after they transfer their short stories.

Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe

A fluffy terry bathrobe will keep them company, whether they're writing at dawn or into the night. Brooklinen's Turkish cotton feels delightfully spa-like , with adjustable sleeves (important to keep from getting in the way of their typing) and roomy pockets.

Maude Tub Kit No. 1 Bath Salts & Coconut Milk Bath Soak Set

Encourage self-care with a set of soothing bath salts and soaks scented with warming notes of amber, cedar leaf, lemongrass, and tonka bean. Add a Kindle to the mix, which is waterproof, so they can read while they rest.

Ameriergo Under-Desk Foot Rest

SELF's associate special projects director Hannah Pasternak, who moonlights as an avid writer, recommends a rounded foot cushion like this soft, adjustable one. “My foot cushion; what would I do without thee?” she says. “It helps me stay really physically comfortable—otherwise my knees get achy and my legs get almost swollen-feeling.”

Rite in the Rain All-Weather Top-Spiral Notebook

Here's a waterproof notepad to ensure that their brilliant shower thoughts (or hiking thoughts) get written down upon ideation.

Home Chef Gift Subscription

Meal kits ensure that even the busiest folks have time to eat nourishing, home-cooked meals. Thankfully there is no shortage of kits out there, but how do you know which one is best for the busy writer in your life? Home Chef was praised by our commerce editor —who is also a writer—for its convenience (pre-portioned ingredients), overall ease (everything is thrown together in 30 minutes or less), and taste. 

Cost: Meals start at $7 per serving (choose from two or four servings) and can even be customized for an additional fee; different meal options are available on the site . Delivery is free for orders over $49 and $10 for anything less than that amount.

Most Modest Cody Desktop Organizer

Here's a minimalist organizer for all their writing tchotchkes. It keeps everything arranged at eye level so they don't have to rifle around their desk drawers for a pen. 

Pilot G2 Premium Refillable & Retractable Rolling Ball Gel Pens

Widely hailed on the internet as the best pen, the Pilot G2 rollerball has generated an impressive online fandom —and for good reason. This pen writes smoothly, doesn't smudge (left-handed people, rejoice!), and is long-lasting. Chances are your writer friend already has one, but you know they'll need a restock eventually.

Yamazaki Round Headphone Stand

An organized, clear desk might help them stay on-task if they're working under a deadline. This streamlined, Japanese-designed headphone stand keeps their favorite pair close by and ensures that they don't get knotted, bent, or broken.

Rain Design iLevel2 Adjustable Height Laptop Stand

One SELF staffer has relied on this laptop stand for working from home. It props your computer at an angle that's easy on your neck and eyes, and it has a slider to make angling the elevation seamless.

Hydro Flask Wide-Mouth Vacuum Water Bottle with Flex Cap

Staying hydrated might be one of the most annoying things writers have to keep up with (so many trips to the bathroom!), but that doesn't mean it isn't literally essential to their well-being. A no-frills insulated water bottle is a nice gift—even better if it comes with a call from you every hour to remind them to take a sip. Kidding. Please don't do that. 

Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro

Our SELF commerce editor Malia Griggs loves this magnetic keyboard that attaches to her iPad: “It transforms my iPad into something I can take to coffee shops to work and write. It's sleek, well-designed, and it has a trackpad." It doubles as a protective case too.

Branch Ergonomic Chair

To go along with their stately writer's desk (or nook), a highly ergonomic chair is a must. Branch's is a rare combination of aesthetically pleasing and functional. It offers eight points of adjustment for even the most finicky of sitters, a contoured upper backrest, and firm lumbar support.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Face Mask

When they're exhausted, doing a skin care routine might be close to the last thing on their mind—if not the last. This overnight face mask from Kiehl's is this SELF's commerce writer's go-to hydrating product for late nights. I've written previously that this mask “exists to ensure your tired, hungover skin never sees the light of day.” Plus, after cleansing, it's the only product your friend needs to bother slathering on before they hit the hay.

Caraway Whistling Tea Kettle

Hot tea and coffee are essential writing accessories. In order to make their perfect brew, they'll need a kettle that's up to the task. Our hot take is that whistling stovetop teapots are better (and way cuter) than trendy electric options. This one from Caraway comes in a handful of cottagecore-esque hues that will make them want to show it off in their kitchen. 

Book of the Month Club Gift Subscription

Book of the Month

Chances are, your writer is a book lover . To keep their vocabulary in tip-top shape, hone their unique writing style, and help them craft their own characters and storylines, a Book of the Month Club subscription makes a great gift. The book club allows them to choose hardcovers or paperbacks from a selection of five books every month.

Cost: A 3-month gift subscription is $50; 6 months is $100; 1 year is $180.

Grammarly Subscription

A little known fact is that the Beatles hit  “With a Little Help From My Friends” is actually about writers and their relationship with Grammarly. (Kidding.) The helpful AI service gives corrections and tips for optimizing and editing writing , from sentence structure to word choice. Though Grammarly doesn't offer gift cards, you can purchase Grammarly Premium on their behalf for total access to the company's helpful services.

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

Professional authors chime in on gift ideas for writers—both during the holidays and any time of year.

If you’re looking for the best gifts for writers in your life, look no further. There are lots of great gifts for creative writers—you just need to get in a writer’s head. With the help of some lovely authors, we’ve compiled this list of the best gifts for writers. Whether you’re wrapping presents for a poet, novelist, essayist, journalist, screenwriter, or experimental author, one of these unique gifts for writers is sure to satisfy.

Check out these 35 gift ideas for writers in your life.

Note: This is not an affiliate article. The items below are based on recommendations from authors we surveyed, including: Lori Goshert-Shokirov, Katherine Martinelli, Julie Vick, Shana Westlake, Kate Wehr, Caitlin Manner, Shannon Lee, Risa N. McDonell, Nandita Godoble, and Cindy Marie Jenkins. Many thanks to them!

The 35 Best Gifts for Writers

These gifts for writers are sure to delight the author in your life.

1. Online Writing Courses

One of the best gifts for writers is a writing course or workshop to help them develop their writing craft. writers.com offers dozens of unique, delightful writing courses across fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Check out the full course schedule to find what will work best for the writer in your life. 

You can gift any Writers.com course , or purchase a gift card for any amount of course credit.

(If the writer in your life is working on a novel, our self-guided class  The Successful Novel makes the perfect gift!) 

2. A Hotel Room for the Weekend

Cheryl Strayed, author of The Wild, often binge writes in a hotel room for days at a time. A hotel stay frees the writer from parenting duties and responsibilities at home. It gives the writer the time to focus on finishing a manuscript or making notes on a memoir. The uninterrupted time is priceless, even if it’s just for a day. Find hotel deals on a website like Kayak.com. And remember, the hotel room doesn’t have to be far away: it’s a quiet, productive space for the writer to produce their best work.

3. Fountain Pen with Ink

Some writers prefer to pen their thoughts the old school way — with pen and paper. Writer Jordan Rosenfeld loved receiving this gift during the holiday season. Make it feel like a special experience by gifting a fountain pen and ink to the writer in your life. There is nothing like a smooth pen gliding across a crisp sheet of paper, which makes this one of the best gifts for writers out there.

4. Subscriptions to Writerly Magazines

Lori Goshert-Shokirov loves that her father gifts her annual subscriptions to magazines like The Paris Review , Creative Nonfiction , and The New Yorker . It is a great way for writers to get inspired by essays, columns, poetry, and many hidden gems. These unique gifts for writers are valuable ways to remember the writer in your life and offer them something that brings more depth to their craft.

5. Writing Retreat

A writing retreat is a great way for a writer to make headway and progress on a manuscript or other long-term project. Many writing retreats span a week or two, and it can offer a writer a real chance to work in solitude and engage with other colleagues on writing-related activities. Retreats can be expensive and are often application based, but paying for a writer to go on retreat stands as one of the best gifts for writers possible.

6. Laptop Stand and Other Office Accessories

Over time, sitting too much at your desk can cause chronic pain and health issues. Writers might appreciate a laptop stand so they aren’t spending all day in a stationary position. Writer Katherine Martinelli’s goal is making her space feel more comfortable. She says, “A laptop stand, ergonomic keyboard, nice desk chair, chair pillow to help with posture — these are all things I’ve gifted myself and/or my mom (a writer). My husband got me an office chair.” Whatever you buy, prioritizing an author’s comfort will generate some wonderful gift ideas for writers.

7. Lego Typewriter

If you’re looking to splurge on the writer in your life, writer Julie Vick recommends the Lego typewriter , priced at $200. Modeled after a vintage 1950 model with movable type, this typewriter brings a sense of fun and nostalgia to any writer’s office space.

8. Aqua Notes

Some writers do their best thinking in the shower. Aqua Notes is a unique gift for writers that can help them get their thoughts down before the water turns off. It’s a 40-page notepad that is completely waterproof and can be used in the shower, near the bath or out in the rain. A standout gift idea for its surprising usefulness.

9. Pencil Chocolate

A hard day of writing definitely deserves a reward. Gift the writer in your life this pencil-themed chocolate from Present and Correct. It is Scotland-made chocolate-infused cedar and pine covered with cocoa nibs. It’s the best kind of treat at the end of the day, and it helps your writer celebrate reaching their daily word count. Among unique gifts for writers, this may be the tastiest.

10. Writer’s Tears Whiskey

You don’t need to be Truman Capote or Dorothy Parker to enjoy a good whiskey. If it helps get words on the page, Writer’s Tears Whiskey might be just the drink for the writers in your life.

11. Meditation Apps

In addition to being healthy for anyone, centering activities like journaling and meditation can provide wellsprings of creative inspiration. Meditation apps like Calm or Headspace offer month-by-month subscriptions. Free trials are available for writers who want to try the apps before committing to a monthly or yearly subscription.

12. Gift Certificate for Home Cleaning

A clean home will make a writer procrastinate less and write more. A writer can’t use the excuse of dirty dishes in the sink or the need to fold laundry to avoid their writing. Shana Westlake recommends a gift certificate for home cleaning, and I have to agree with her recommendation. I feel like I have more freedom to write when my house is clean. For writers who just need their writing space organized, you could hire a home organizer to help them deep clean their space.

13. Meal Delivery Kits

Writing momentum sometimes comes at unexpected times, and there might be no time to stop and make lunch or dinner. Writer Kate Wehr says, “I got gifted a meal delivery kit as a birthday thing and now I’m obsessed. It’s so nice to have a basic dinner plan ready to go 2- 4 nights a week where I don’t have to think about cooking all day (yay, writing brain space) and in a pinch, I can even hand a recipe card to my spouse and plop a bag on the counter. It’s a huge time saver I never would have bought on my own.” This is an out-of-the-box gift that most writers would love to receive.

14. Fingerless Gloves

In the winter, especially in the morning, writers may have trouble with their fingers cramping or moving too slow. And when writing inspiration strikes, it isn’t a task to postpone. These Jane Austen-themed fingerless gloves might be the exact thing the writer in your life needs, as they keep both blood and words flowing through the fingers. Writer Caitlin Manner says fingerless gloves help with her cold stiff hands and her Raynaud’s syndrome.

15. Bluetooth Headphones

If you’re a writer who shares space with other family members, silence is likely impossible. Lori Goshert-Shokirov says “Having wireless headphones is a game-changer for me”; they’re often sound-proof, they don’t have distracting wires, and it’s easy to get lost in the page when you barely notice you’re wearing them. Some options include Apple Airpods, or a less expensive option like Lanteso TWS Bluetooth Earbuds.

16. Books on Writing

Books on writing make great gifts for aspiring writers, as a writer can open any of these works to find inspiration. Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird , Stephen King’s On Writing , and Steven Pressfield’s  The War of Art are tried-and-true works that come to mind. I personally love Austin Kleon’s Keep Going and Alexander Chee’s How to Write an Autobiographical Novel: Essays . This might be one of the best inexpensive Christmas gifts for writers in your life.

17. Gift Card to a Local Bookstore

Go local and support a community bookstore. Writers love these local gems where, on top of books, they can find special writing knickknacks and other unique tchotchkes. Sometimes just visiting an indie store inspires a writer to come up with new plots or writing ideas. Use Indiebound’s bookstore finder to locate independent bookstores in your state or city.

18. Blank Journals

Most writers love blank journals, and you can never have enough of them! I personally love a new journal, and I’m always excited to write in new pages because it feels like a fresh beginning. I especially love the leather bound journals from Soothi. These journals can be customized and personalized with initials or a special phrase. A writer will treasure this gift before and after they’ve written in it.

19. Post-It Notes

Sticky notes can be insanely useful, as many writers often have brilliant ideas and forget to write them down. Plus, a writer can push through writer’s block by placing positive affirmations around their writing space. I have a fun cube called the Poppin Sticky Memo Ball that sits near my desk. When a thought about a flash fiction story or a nonfiction piece comes to mind, I grab a sticky note so I don’t forget. Alternatively, it could be used for a positive affirmation. On a recent note, I wrote, “You got this!” and placed it next to my laptop as a reminder.

20. Charging Stand

Many writers rely on their phones to conduct interviews, post on social media, jot notes and poems, or take photographs to accompany a story. In the rush of getting words on the page, it’s important that your writer’s phone can last the writing journey. This charging stand is especially handy since it charges multiple devices at once.

21. Author-Themed Candles

Writers often love rituals. A part of the routine might mean lighting a candle in their space, and author theme candles can make a space feel ripe for writing. Check out these candles from Uncommon Goods — they have everything from The Great Gatsby to Pride and Prejudice . Writer Shannon Lee loves her Langston Hughes candle , which she received as a gift from Harlem Candle Company.

22. Funny Pencils

Most writers could use a daily dose of humor. Writer Risa N. McDonell says, “Whiskey River Soap Company makes hilarious Astrology Pencils (a different box for each sign) and a great set of Pencils for Writer’s Block (e.g., “Try Vodka” and “Add a Vampire”). I have a set of pencils that I pull out occasionally to remind myself to laugh (especially during hard writing days).” These fun, unique gifts for writers will keep them joyful through the writing process.

23. Tea Tasting Kits

Some writers like to begin their writing routine with a warm cup of tea to ease into the page, and many writers I know won’t begin their practice without either tea or coffee. Writer Nandita Godoble recommends tea tasting kits as a great gift for writers.

24. Writing-Themed Mugs

I have an entire shelf of writer’s mugs. I cannot get enough of them, and the writers in your life could use one more mug, too. Kate Wehr says “I get writing and editing-themed mugs, shirts and coffee shop cards. Works for me! Inexpensive and they’ll get used frequently.” I have a few mugs I adore and regularly use my “Words Matter” coffee cup.

25. Writing-Themed Cards

The best gifts for writers should be paired with the best cards. Writer Cindy Marie Jenkins recommends writing-themed cards like “I Love You to the Bookstore and Back” and “Read Books and Chill.” In addition to cards, stickers and totes are also available at Pretty Peacock Paperie. 26. Temporary Writer Tattoo

Maybe the writer in your life doesn’t want to commit to the pain of permanent ink, but would love a few temporary tattoos as a source of inspiration. These temporary tattoos from Litographs showcase different sayings, from classics like Pride and Prejudic e, Jane Eyre , Walden , and others. When the writer in your life is stuck in a writing rut, they can look at her wrist for instant inspiration.

27. Writer Shot Glasses

Why not make writing more fun with author-inspired shot glasses ? These shot glasses from The Unemployed Philosophers Guide feature Lord Byron, Oscar Wilde, Dorothy Parker, Winston Churchill, W. B. Yeats, and Charles Baudelaire. They will make great gifts for writers as a colorful addition to your writer’s bar—either as decor or a shot when you feel like celebrating a win.

28. Comfortable Pajamas

Your favorite writer likely stays home to read a book or spends time typing on their laptop. They may want to lounge or work in comfy pajamas. These writing-themed pajamas from CafePress feature quotes from authors and top 10 grammar pet peeves, making them the comfiest gifts for writers.

29. Writer’s Clock

Sometimes inspiration to work on your writing project comes from the most unexpected places. This writer’s clock from Zazzle represents the writing process in a true, humorous way. Everything from “revise” to “cry” to “wait” lets your writer move through their writing day with a sense of humor.

30. Neck and Back Massager

The writer in your life likely spends long hours at their desk. Sitting for so long brings aches and pains that a nice neck and back massage might alleviate. This massager offers a deep tissue massage and is also portable to use, not only at your office chair, but also while writing in bed.

31. Scrabble Magnets

An idea can strike anywhere for the writer, but ideas often come while they’re sipping a cup of coffee in the kitchen. These Scrabble magnets can serve as instant inspiration to create random words and come up with that next short story’s opening line.

32. Writer-Themed Bookends

Every writer has several books scattered all throughout the house. Having these writer bookends could immediately give a bookshelf an automatic facelift. They are also the kind of fun and stylish gifts for writers that any writer would love.

33. Writer Jewelry

This typewriter necklace is a fun trinket (that your writer friend might not buy on their own). These vintage letters hang on a sturdy chain and can be a comforting good luck charm. They’re great gifts for writers who need a little luck to get words on the page.

34. Photoshoot  

Every writer needs a headshot for their website. A photoshoot is a great idea, especially for the writer who needs a current snapshot for a book launch, a conference, or an update to their social media profile. Find a local photographer and make it easy for your writer friend to strike their best pose.

35. Writing Tools

Any writer can benefit from a subscription to writing tools like Grammarly, Hemingway App, Scrivener, or Pro Writing Aid. It can help the writer get an extra edge on proofreading, sentence construction, word choice, and even plot and character development. Helping your writer to actually write is certainly one of the best gifts for writers of all stripes.

Find the Best Gifts for Writers at Writers.com

Want to show the author in your life that you care? Writers.com classes make the best gifts for writers of all genres. Narrow down your shopping list with any of our upcoming creative writing courses , or purchase a gift card for future use.

Many thanks again for the input from authors Lori Goshert-Shokirov, Katherine Martinelli, Julie Vick, Shana Westlake, Kate Wehr, Caitlin Manner, Shannon Lee, Risa N. McDonell, Nandita Godoble, and Cindy Marie Jenkins.

i was looking over your article here and found it to be very useful and informative i was very confusing first what to gift to my writer friend on her birthday but after reading this blog i am clear now what to gift. gifting a writing online course or diary pen i found to be very useful great ideas thanks for posting this stuff

Thank you ✍🔥

Have you heard of Journal of the Month? It’s a service that sends an assortment of literary magazines, a different one every month. You can find it at http://www.journalofthemonth.com

What a wonderful idea! I can’t wait to order some for myself 🙂

It is a fantastic blog article. Thanks a lot for your efforts.

Really impressive information.! thanks for sharing this quality content.

Some of the most unique gifts i have ever seen, specially for such a unique category.

I’m a LEGO fan so by far the best gift is a typewriter, it’s gorgeous and very well built. I already have this kit and I am very happy with it. Of course, it is on a shelf among my books

Such unique ideas!

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Blog • Understanding Publishing

Last updated on Dec 18, 2023

60 Gifts for Writers That Your Creative Friends Will Love

Finding gifts for writers sounds easy — a good fountain pen or a nice leather-bound notebook surely can’t go wrong. But while they’ll appreciate your classic writerly gifts, it doesn’t hurt to surprise them a little with something more fun yet still is a celebration of their craft. To help you out on this exciting endeavor, we’ve put together a list of 60 gifts at multiple price points for you to browse and find the perfect presents for your writer friends, or even for yourself!

Budget-friendly options ($5-$15)

1. muji gel pens ($2).

Known for their smooth gliding on the page, these Japanese gel pens are favorites among bullet journalers and notebook enthusiasts — and they make for an affordable gift that directly adds to a writer’s craft supplies. Choose a few different colors you think your friend will find useful (red pen for proofreading marks , anyone?), and you’ll have a great stocking filler or Secret Santa gift. Your environmentally-minded friends will love the fact that MUJI also sells refills , helping save plastic when you run out of ink!

2. Writerly stickers ($3-4)

• Writer at Work $3
• Master of worlds $3.25
• Progress, not perfection $3.50
• The Writer tarot card $3.50
• This Barbie is a writer $4

If you’re looking for an inexpensive but fun gift that shows your loved one you believe in their writing abilities, writerly stickers are a great choice. Our sticker selection above can help the writers in your life publicly claim their writer identity, even if it’s in a small way. There are as many sticker types as there are human personalities, so choose what you think is best suited to your friend — if you don’t love the options here, there’s plenty more to browse on Redbubble and Etsy. 

3. Leuchtturm Pen Loop ($6)

4. Lady Macbeth's guest soap ($6)

Out, damned spot! An affordable (yet rather amusing) trinket, this pretty-yet-practical soap bar will take care of all your filth-eradicating needs — morally and otherwise.

5. The Emotion Thesaurus and others ($7 per ebook)

There are only so many times people can read, “Larry was sad,” without getting sick of Larry and whatever he’s sad about. Luckily, The Emotion Thesaurus can help: it contains pages and pages of detailed body signals, facial expressions, and mental responses to use in description — all for $7 (if you buy it on Kindle). Might as well pick up its sequels while you’re at it!

6. ‘Writer at work’ door sign ($9)

Know a writer who can’t get a moment’s peace? It’s a well-established fact that having a room of one’s own to work in is crucial to a writer’s productivity and sense of welfare — and you can help your friend draw a boundary with this door sign. Like an “on air” sign for TV studios, it tells your friend’s beloved family members to be quiet, or at the very least, avoid that room for a little while. 

7. Out of Print’s Book Socks ($12)

As Albus Dumbledore said, “One can never have enough socks.” We’re right there with him! You can find plenty of bookish socks at Out of Print — for writer friends who need a motivational boost, this pair quoting Margaret Atwood is perfect. 

8. A writing motivation poster ($12)

9. Stress balls ($14)

When the mental anguish of writing gets to be too much — or when one’s tired fingers could use a break — there’s nothing like a stress ball to take the edge off. This colorful three-pack is just $14, so your writer friend can keep them in multiple locations for creative stress-mergencies.

10. Tequila Mockingbird ($14)

You know what they say: write drunk, edit sober . The drinks in this book include “The Pitcher of Dorian Grey Goose,” “Romeo and Julep,” “A Rum of One’s Own,” and “The Last of the Mojitos.” A guaranteed party success that will get everyone gone with the gin in no time.

11. Books about writing ($10-$15)

The only thing better than moaning about writing is reading other authors moan about it instead. Here are a few of our favorite essay collections about the writing craft: Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott, The Writing Life by Annie Dillard, and On Writing by Stephen King.

Elevated casual gifts ($15-$30)

12. aquanotes ($15).

If you loved Singin' In the Rain , get ready for its even-better sequel: Writin' In The Rain! The AquaNotes waterproof pad allows you to capture those elusive #showerthoughts right away. Just don’t blame us when you (or your friend) end up tripling the water bill.

13. ‘This shit writes itself’ mug ($16)

This hilarious mug will make your friend laugh when they receive it, but it will also sit alongside them as they write as a funny reminder to have a little more confidence. For fans of memes, the absurd pairing of the quote with Shakespeare’s portrait will remain endlessly entertaining.

14. Literary jigsaw puzzle ($16)

15. The 3 A.M. Epiphany ($18)

If 1 a.m. is for writer’s block and 2 a.m. is for pure panic, 3 a.m. is when this book comes to the rescue. With 200 carefully crafted exercises, this is a saving grace for writers everywhere. (If you want to make it a double whammy, pair it with its sequel, The 4 A.M. Breakthrough .)

16. Shakespearean insults mug ($20)

This “insults mug” is perfect for Shakespeare nerds and anyone craving a steaming hot cup of joe with a side of slander.

17. Writing dice ($20)

18. NovelTea Tins ($20)

Nothing beats a warm beverage to keep writers cozy in the cold season — and NovelTea’s range offers just that, along with some literary puns and bookmarks. From Pippi Oolongstocking to Sense and Senchability, you can feast your eyes on the intricate tins or buy the tea blend only.

19. Writer’s Market 100th Edition ($21 for ebook)

20. Papercuts ($22)

21. Strand Books NY beanie ($22)

Writers and indie bookshops are each other's biggest supporters — so why not gift your writer friend a piece of bookish headgear that supports NYC’s largest indie bookstore? Besides, according to the New York Times, literary hats are the new tote bags .

22. Typewriter coasters ($23)

23. Personal library kit ($24)

24. Zebra Sarasa color pens ($25)

25. “100 Essential Novels” scratch-off chart ($25)

This chart features 100 of the most famous English-language novels, from Don Quixote to Tree of Smoke . Not only is it a fun wall decoration, it’s also as addictive as real lottery scratchers — only this way, you'll be gaining knowledge, not losing cash.

26. Dragon fidget ring ($27)

Do you have a fantasy-writing friend? They’ll likely know all about powerful rings and their lords, and will appreciate slipping on this ornate dragon ring when it’s time to conjure some magic and make some progress with their writing. This cool ring is also spinnable, so fidgeters can spin it while thinking about the turn their story will take next.

27. Dramatic bookends ($29)

What happens when bookshelves get jealous of the books for stealing the spotlight? Why do books get all the glory, anyway? Add ✨drama✨ to any shelf with these bookends that are sure to stop guests in their tracks.

28. Cards Against Humanity ($29)

This one might seem like a wildcard (no pun intended) in our list of otherwise very literary gifts. But when you think about it, what is CAH other than a game of spinning stories? Gift this to your most mischievous writer friends — if nothing else, it’s a great way to blow off some steam!

Solid mid-range options ($30-$50)

29. donation to a writing organization ($30 or custom).

For activist-minded friends, minimalists, or those who insist they have everything they need, you can make a donation to a writing organization. We’re listing this at the $30 mark to get your attention, but the truth is that most organizations allow you to donate as little or as much as you like. Some of our faves include the Lambda Literary Review , which champions LGBTQ+ writers, and of course PEN America , which defends writers’ rights to free expression and ceaselessly fights against book bans. There are also Room to Read , which supports literacy among low-income communities and young girls, or the National Book Foundation , which celebrates literature published in the United States.

30. Literary tote bags ($31)

31. The Story Engine ($33)

32. Paddywax Library Candles ($30) 

33. Mini zen garden ($30)

Writers don’t tend to be the most “zen” people in the world; they’re often either stressed about writing, or not having enough time to write. Luckily, this zen garden is just the thing to bring them a bit of inner peace — for their sake as well as yours.

34. Art print of an epic poetry classic ($30)

35. Storymatic ($30)

This box has six trillion (yes, you read that right) story ideas on cards that you can mix and match. Where else would you be able to find a prompt about a hypochondriac at a class reunion talking about broken promises while looking at unflattering portraits of themselves in their yearbooks? Perfect for long road trips, or an inspiring game night for creatives.

36. New York Public Library vintage-inspired tee ($30)

Writers are some of the most ardent believers in libraries — so buying them merch from their favorite library is a) cool, and b) a gift that supports their library of choice. Win-win-win for your friend, their library, and your status as a gift-giver.

The example above is a vintage-inspired tee from the New York Public Library’s online store. Cool, no?

37. MOFT laptop stand ($30)

MOFT’s origami-inspired laptop stand might not be the world’s most fun gift, but it’ll certainly appeal to those who like functional presents — or those obstinate writers still hunching over a laptop screen and suffering from neck pain. Ideally paired with an external keyboard for good writing posture, this lightweight stand is a small gift that can make a great impact on your friend’s writing sessions.

38. Paris Review t-shirt ($35)

As with the library merch, literary magazine merch works on two levels, getting your friend some literary swag and supporting the magazine in question. Here, we have a tee that says “I have impeccable literary taste” — for your well-read friends who might be hoping to place their writing in the famed Paris Review. Bonus points if they already have!

39. Immersive desk mat ($37)

The dark academia trend is here to stay, but even before that was a thing, gothic literature thrived. For your writer friends who write about dark libraries, vampires, or academic cities with spires, an immersive desk mat can contribute to the immersive experience of their writing space.

40. Back cushion pillow ($40)

41. ‘The Writer’ tarot card sweatshirt ($40)

42. Dixit ($40)

Wordsmiths, here’s the game to practice your writing craft with! In Dixit, each player gets a set of illustrations, from which they have to choose one to describe when it comes their turn to be the “storyteller”. Other players then put down a card from their own deck that best matches this description, and then they have to guess which image the “storyteller” actually played. You can watch a demonstration of the gane here and see for yourself: once you start, it’s hard to stop. 

43. Luxury bath caddy ($43)

44. Personalized sundial compass ($49)

If you were writing about an epic hero’s journey or an adventure across a fantastical world, wouldn’t you love to have an ornate compass on your desk? Fans of Philip Pullman’s The Northern Lights trilogy will especially appreciate this sundial compass’ mystique, as they’ll be reminded of the famous aletheiometer from the novels. For writers who need to remember not to lose their way in the challenging lands of a first draft, a compass can help point them back to shelter.

45. Gingko’s Smart Book Light ($49) 

“Splurge” items ($50-$100)

46. george saunders’ story club ($50).

Celebrated short story writer, novelist, and writing tutor George Saunders has run this newsletter and reading/writing online community since December 2021. A gift subscription can give your friend a year’s access to a master’s insights for just $50. The club reads through classic short stories, breaking down how they do what they do, extracting craft insights, and discussing the life of writers through weekly Q&As with one of America’s most successful writers.

47. Lochby Field Journal ($59)

48. Banker’s lamp ($77)

49. Vintage book laptop cover ($80)

If the wordsmith in your life is a Mac user, consider treating them to this stylish, retro laptop case from BookBook. They’ll feel like an old-school literary luminary, but with modern tech right at their fingertips!

50. Leather journal ($90)

Know someone who’s working on a huge fantasy epic? This 600-page leather-bound journal will be right up their street. It literally looks like a prop from a fantasy movie, and holds a rose quartz on the front cover — if this isn’t a journal to conjure a new world into, we don’t know what is.

Deluxe gifts ($100+)

51.  nuphy air75 m echanical keyboard ($129).

In the tech community, mechanical keyboards are all the rage, renowned for an extremely satisfying tactile experience for typists. Well, joke’s on them, because writers do more typing than anybody else, with the average novel being 70,000-100,000 words long, not including deleted chapters, revisions, or rewrites. With that in mind, we’ve picked out a retro-inspired keyboard that will look great on your friend’s writing desk and make the typing a lot more enjoyable. You’ll be scoring some serious points.

52. Kindle ($140)

53. Personalized Book Embosser ($141)

For writers growing their personal library, a personalized book embosser can be the perfect custom gift. No more lending books to people who “forget” the books were yours in the first place: just tell them to turn to page 2, it’s got your name on it. 

This is a gift that’s gone a little viral on TikTok, and it’s not surprising that the company offers you a deal for a bundle of two — it’s hard to buy one for someone else and not grab one for yourself! They have frequent offers, so do keep an eye out for discounts.

54. Print subscription to The New Yorker ($170/year)

55. NYPL Hunt-Lenox Globe ($350)

For dark academia decor enthusiasts, dragon lovers, or New York Public Library megafans, we’ve got a brilliant decor gift: a replica of the NYPL’s Hunt-Lenox globe. According to the NYPL website, the original globe, dating back to approximately 1510, “is one of only two known instances of a historical map using the phrase “HC SVNT DRACONES” (‘here be dragons’).” Set on your writer friend’s desk, this is an incredibly cool object to stare at while they plan the next steps of their writing project.

56. Jarvis bamboo standing desk ($938)

If you really want to treat an awesome writer in your life, go all-out with this luxury bamboo standing desk from Jarvis. With smoothly adjustable legs and ample room for laptop, notes, and countless cups of tea, this desk is absolutely worth its price tag — both in terms of utility and health benefits. It may even have your friend dedicating their next book to you out of gratitude.

57. ‘How to Write a Novel,’ a writing course by Reedsy ($1250)

As students work through 101 days of daily lessons, they can use our members’ hub to meet other authors writing in their genre, exchange feedback, and discuss each lesson. Each week of the course brings a live webinar with Tom, writing coaches, and fellow students, as well as interviews with successful authors. 

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58. Mosby writing desk ($1700)

This deluxe gift for a writer will remind them of you every time they sit down to write.

59. International Writers’ Retreat in the Himalayas ($3300)

60. Paris Writing Workshop ($ 3495)

These items have been chosen independently by the team at Reedsy, but if you buy something through our post, we may get a small share of the sale. We hope you found what you were looking for! If you're still on the hunt for the perfect literary gift, check out this list of the 60 best gifts for book lovers .

2 responses

Viktor Stoynov says:

20/12/2018 – 11:50

43. Write a novel in no time with Instawriter - $49 It's an innovation, a break-through, a way for you to channel your creativity and write the book you've always wanted to write, all packed in a B5 sized (6,93 X 9,84 inches) , 220 pages, cotemporary designed hard-cover journal.

Brown Satg says:

14/05/2019 – 23:32

The best guide on gifts for writers ever!

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50 Gifts for Writers (That They Actually Need) – 2024

"50 Gifts for Writers (That They Actually Need)" by Jaylynn Korrell is a resource for friends and family of writers to know what to get the writer in their lives when it comes to gift-giving time. Check out the great gifts in this IBR blog post.

“50 Gifts for Writers (That They Actually Need) – 2024”

by Jaylynn Korrell

Finding the right gifts for writers in your life can be daunting.

You’ve already bought them their fair share of mugs, bookmarks, and other literary knick-knacks. And they already own all of their favorite books . So what else do they want?

What are the perfect gifts for writers?

There are so many gifts for writers that could be helpful or inspiring to their writing or their day-to-day lives. If you’re looking for a practical and useful gift for writers they’ll genuinely be happy about receiving, we’ve got the list for you! And if you can’t find what you’re looking for her check out some gifts for book lovers !

(Everything on IBR lists has been independently selected by a very picky group of people. We may earn a commission on items you purchase through our links.)

Check out these 50 gifts for writers (that they actually need), #1. one line a day journal.

Sometimes the best gifts for writers is the push to keep up the habit of writing every day. This little journal will help them to get some words out each day and keep exercising their creative muscles.

#2. Writer’s Toolbox

A little extra help in a time of need is one of the best gifts for writers that you can give. While you may not be able to provide that writing assistance yourself, this gift for writers can do just the trick.

#3. Astrohaus Freewrite Traveler Typewriter

If the writer in your life struggle with distractions then they’ll likely enjoy a gift life the Astrohaus Freewrite Traveler Typewriter. It’s the perfect alternative to totting around their laptop, and frees them from being sidelined by things like emails or social media. It’s a portable typewriter that is compact and only weighs 1.6 pounds, but also holds tons of storage, has built-in wifi, and can effortlessly sync up to the cloud. This little gadget is the gift that most writers only dare to dream about.

#4. Waterproof Notepad

While some people prefer to sing in the shower, others use the time to do some of their best thinking. To help the writer in your life not miss out on their next big idea, try getting them a notepad for the shower. This way they can write down their thoughts without having to run back to their desk naked. 

#5. Writer’s T-Shirt

A serious writer’s life is pretty simple, and this writer’s t-shirt covers the basics of how it feels to be in the throws of a good writing routine! Writers will love the concept of this t-shirt, and it’s straightforward message!

#6. Amazon Kindle Scribe

There’s nothing quite like handling a paperback book and turning real pages, but as we covered earlier, writers have to read on their screen very often. These are great gifts for writers and readers!

With Kindle Scribe, they can actually send Microsoft Word or PDF documents from their computer over to their Kindle to give them a break from the blue light that hurts their eyes. They can also take handwritten notes as this Kindle doubles as digital notebook. That way, they could read their book and take notes the same as if they had already published the eBook, or use it to write their own novel.

#7. Hard Cover Writing Journal

Sometimes the best gifts for writers is a blank slate. This hard cover writing journal will give your writer a book of fresh blank pages to start writing down their great ideas or jotting down chapters of their next great novel! It comes with over 300 pages, giving them ample room to write down whatever comes to mind.

#8. Writing Dice

Make writing fun again with this awesome writing dice set. It features 9 dice that help writers banish the blank page and quick start their creativity making it one of the more useful gifts for writers with writer’s block.

#9. Tell them about IBR

However you found this blog post, we’re pumped that you came. Did you know that in addition to promoting amazing small press and self-published books we publish content exclusively for writers ? How about that we offer nearly all the author services a writer would need to publish a book? Well, you do now.

We are always searching for new readers and writers to join our community and get to celebrating indie books together. So it may not seem like a gift with a ribbon on top, but if you drop IndependentBookReview.com into the writer in your life’s phone or email, I’m confident they’ll love you for sending them over.

#10. Personalized Writer’s Block

A writer’s block is one of the sillier gifts for writers on this list, but it doesn’t have to be. This writer’s block is able to be personalized on all 6 sides. It’s a great opportunity to include inspirational messages to your writer that will help to get them out of a funk. Add quotes from famous authors, personalized messages.

#11. Desk Chair Cushion

It’s important to be comfortable when sitting down at a desk for hours on end. That’s why having the perfect desk chair is so important. A good, supportive desk chair is one of the best gifts for writers you can give. It can help to save them from back problems down the road, and provide some extra cushiony comfort. You’d be surprised at just how thrilled a practical gift can make them.

#12. Lap Desk

No one wants to admit that they write in bed, but if you have a writer living in your home you’ve probably walked in on them doing just that. If you want to make them feel more legit writing in bed, and put some space between them and a lot of electromagnetic frequency radiation, a lap desk is a good gift for writers. It can also make a great gift for kids who like to read in bed!

#13. Craft In the Real World by Matthew Salesses

Chosen as one of the best books our founder (Joe Walters) read in 2021! Here’s why:

“ Craft in the Real World  breaks down what you think you know about writing craft and communicates honestly how to approach writing, editing, publishing, and workshopping books. If you’re a writer and you haven’t read this book yet, you’re doing yourself a disservice…This book is destined to be a craft book classic.”

#14. Magnetic Poetry

You never know when inspiration will strike. Often times its when we least expect it. In those cases its nice to have a literary tool on hand. These magnetic poetry pieces will fit effortlessly onto any fridge and make a great gift for writers who spend any amount of time in the kitchen.

#15. Kindle Unlimited Membership

A kindle unlimited membership will give the writer in your life access to over one million eBooks as well as thousands of audiobooks. If you’ve been following us at IBR for a while, you know how much we love it when authors support one another by downloading books, writing reviews, and talking about them on social media. With a Kindle Unlimited membership, the writer in your life can download a whole lot of indie eBooks for free and help emerging authors get the recognition they deserve—not to mention that the author in your life will now have access to plenty of free books.

There’s even an option to start a free 30 day Kindle Unlimited trial !

#16. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

The idea of a peaceful, silent writing room isn’t always realistic. Writers are not always lucky enough to write in a quiet space, because sometimes, their coffee shop gets too noisy to get their work done. You can help make it easier on them by gifting the writer in your life a pair of noise-cancelling headphones so that they can bump music and still get their writing done. And this way, it doesn’t matter how loud the holiday music is in the coffee shop.

#17. Neck Reading Light

Stephen King once said, “If you don’t have the time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write.” And I couldn’t agree more! Writers should turn to reading when they want to encounter new ways to tell a story, new conversations, new ideas, and new inspiration. 

But that inspiration doesn’t always happen during the day. If the writer in your life loves to read in the middle of the night, a good book light will be a great gift to give them. This one sits comfortably on their neck making reading at night easier than ever!

#18. “Write On” T-shirt

It’s hard to find a good literary t shirt that isn’t completely tacky, but we’ve done it. This t-shirt isn’t annoying, and is a cool way to rep what you love. It’s also in a cool typewriter font which any writer will appreciate.

Check out the best gifts for book lovers !

#19. fine point pens.

A good pen can make the writing process so much more enjoyable, but like many small items, good pens get lost easily. For this reason, a packet of good pens is one of the most practical gifts for writers that you can give. 

Writers are pretty much always in need of more pens (especially if you just got them that pocket notebook 👀). If you’re on a budget, they could be a smart buy. 

#20. The Storymatic Game

Sometimes a simple game is just the thing a writer needs to free up space in their brain. This one stays on the literary theme and can be enjoyed with family and friends

#21. “Do Not Disturb” Door Knob Hanger

Let’s face it, writing takes a bit of peace and quiet. Depending on where your writer’s office is that may be hard to attain. This writer’s “Do Not Disturb” door knob hanger makes great gifts for writers who need help communicating their need for alone time.

#22. Literary Candle

When writers are really into their work they tend to stay in their office for long periods of time. And over time that office can get…rank! Literary candles make great gifts for writers who want to stay in their office forever and have it not smell like an old shoe. This one in particular smells like a library! Check out more library themed gifts here !

#23. Help Them Improve Their Writing by Hiring Beta Readers

Writing is a strenuous and solitary task. When a writer sits at their computer and tries to revise, edit, revise, and edit some more, it’s possible they lose objectivity and can’t quite see what would improve their work the most.

That’s why your writer might be interested in getting feedback through editorial services. At IBR, we offer all the editing services your writer could possibly want, including big-picture feedback like group beta reading and editorial letters .

#24. Individual Keurig Machine

Did you know that writer’s blood is made up of almost 90% coffee? Even though that’s a total lie, there’s no denying that coffee is a near necessity for writers to stay energized and ready to write. If they don’t already have one, a Keurig Machine can be a great gift for writers. And if they do already have one, you can buy them a reusable K cup filter . This helps decrease the waste that the plastic, one-time use filters create, and also gives them the opportunity to try different coffees that aren’t available in a K-cup.

#25. Creative Block Writing Prompt Game

Writing doesn’t have to be so serious. In fact writing can be a sun activity that everyone can take part in. This game is one of the great gifts for writers that allows them to get their brain pumping while still being social.

#26. Plan a DIY Writing Retreat

Writers need alone time, but sometimes their office or the quiet section in their library just isn’t enough. A change of scenery can be the key ingredient to finishing that last chapter, or finding a storyline that hadn’t presented itself before. But this kind of writer’s solitude isn’t just for those who want to join in on a pre-organized writing retreat like Barrelhouse’s Writer Camp . Anyone devoting their life to the craft deserves it, and you can make it happen without living near a pre-organized retreat!

A few great options for independent writer retreats include a cabin in the woods, a hotel getaway, AirBnb, and more. Places like KOA have campgrounds all around America that start out at $40 a night. State and National parks can also be a great option. Their cabin and yurts are moderately priced between $30-60 and provide enough simplicity and quietude for a productive couple of days without distractions. And having it be around some beautiful scenery never hurt anybody either. Right?

#27. Desk Timer

Some writers work better when given a certain amount of time to write, making digital desk timers a great gift for writers. They can set the timer for the amount of time they wish to write, and not look back up until that timer goes off. It’s a healthy and inspirational writing exercise that I always recommend people trying at some point in their writing career.

#28. Scrivener Software

If the creative writer in your life doesn’t know about Scrivener yet, they are going to love you when you introduce it. It’s a terrifically helpful word-processing program that provides ways for writers to organize notes, craft characters, research, and outline. If they’re developing a novel, they’re going to love this.

#29. USB Microphone for Dictation

Writing is hard. Even when writers sit down to meet their deadline or pump out another scene in their novel, they can still be tempted to get distracted.

So why not make things a little easier for them?

With this USB microphone, writers can speak out their sentences, paragraphs, and scenes, and their word processor will translate it into text on the page for them. It’s just different enough from their usual style that it could feel like newfound inspiration. Using this device to keep getting more words on the page could be especially helpful during a time when a writer is trying to meet deadline, like NaNoWriMo.

Click here to check out some of our gifts for kids who love to read!

#30. pocket notebooks.

If the writer in your life isn’t a fan of writing on their phone, then a pocket notebook is a sweet little gift to give them. They’re easy to take with you, in your pocket or purse, and can help you get down ideas wherever you are. 

It’s a good option for those who like to take notes or write without drawing attention from people around them. All they have to do is pull it out of their pocket, get the thought down, and keep on moving.

#31. Writing Workshop

Writing workshops are a great way to get your writer’s work into the hands of other writers. In these workshops, writers will exchange work, get and give critiques, and have a community of people to work with who have the same passion as them. Some workshops last a day, some last weeks. Some are even offered online.

If you want to check out some organizations who offer writing workshops, head on over to 10 Literary Organizations Promoting Writing Centers, Classes, and Community .

#32. Official Scriveiner Fountain Pen Gift Set

This classic ballpoint pen makes a cool and fancy presentation for the writer in your life. Some writers do just feel a bit more inspired with a classic pen in hand and this one can definitely contribute to that feeling. This pen in in particular is embellished with a 24k gold finish and an extra fine point.

#33. Standing Desk Attachment

Sitting down all day can be exhausting, especially with everyone working from home lately. It’s nice to give writers the opportunity to switch it up, and stand comfortably while they do their work. Standing desks don’t need to replace a normal desk, but can be set on top of one and adjusted to a comfortable height for your writer. They are even said to improve posture, and boost productivity!

#34. Typewriter Pen Holder

Help contribute to a more organized writing area by giving gifts for writers like this one. This neat little typewriter inspired pen holder will keep their desk in theme while also keeping all those loose pens and pencils in one place. 

#35. Vintage Inspired Page Holder

They say a good writer is typically an avid reader, so you can assume the writer in your life is also a book lover. Give your writer a fun way to hold their place in their latest novel with this vintage inspired book mark.

#36. Writer’s Quote Poster

If the writer in your life needs a little more inspiration in their office then they’ll likely love gifts for writers like this poster. It’s a subtle and vintage inspired piece of art that reminds them of their reason for continuing their work each day.

#37. Laptop Privacy Screen

Writing in a public place can be uncomfortable. With people sitting really close to you and walking behind you, it’s inevitable that someone will take a glance at your laptop screen. If privacy is important for you or the writer in your life, this privacy screen for laptops could be a great gift. It allows only the person sitting directly in front of the screen to see whats being written.

#38. A Bottle of Writer’s Tears

While there might be enough to go around, we’re not talking about actual writer’s tears here. We’re talking about an actual brand of whiskey that has a clever title, and could be the perfect kick to get your writer back on track, or to take the edge off after a long writing session. Alcohol in general is just a good gift to give writers. We are stressed, a lot! But if it’s called Writer’s Tears, it has a little bit of that humor element that makes gift giving special while also being a personalized, practical gift.

#39. Typewriter Bookends

 To accommodate the ever-growing book collection that the writer in your life definitely owns, a couple of tasteful bookends could be a great gift. These sturdy book-stoppers come in all shapes and sizes, but sticking to something classic is my particular favorite. 

#40. Bookshop gift card

If you haven’t heard about Bookshop yet, you are in for a TREAT.

This bookselling ecommerce store has “a mission to financially support, local independent bookstores.” Since more people wanted to buy books online over the last decade, indie bookstores were hurting to compete with the shipping fees and delivery time that Amazon can work from. So bookstores needed an ecommerce site just to handle fulfillment.

That’s where Bookshop comes in. This non-profit organization offers indie booksellers 10% commission on every sale they close by promoting this site (compared to Amazon’s 4.5%) and even matches your 10% to send to indie bookstores across the US (and now UK ).

If the writer in your life is also a ravenous reader, you can send them a gift card which allows them to choose whichever book they want to read while also supporting the exact industry they’re trying to break into. Speaking of readers, you can also look into some gifts for book lovers that might interest them.

#41. Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook

This one notebook can be used endlessly as the pages can be wiped away with a cloth. But don’t worry, they won’t be gone forever. Rocketbook lets you easily upload them to internet cloud services like Google Doc, Dropbox, iCloud and more so they’ll never lose their work.

#42. Literary Magazines

When writing gets tiresome, it’s nice to cozy up with a good book. But sometimes, there just isn’t enough time to read a large piece of work. Reading is essential to the writing process, and short stories are the perfect snippet to fill in a small period of free time. And if your writer works on short stories or poems, this is a great way for the writer to get to know potential places to submit. Literary magazines such as Ploughshares , American Short Fiction , and back copies of the beloved Tin House Magazine are great collections that can spark imagination for the writer in your life.

#43. “I Make Stuff Up” T-Shirt

In most professions its frowned upon to simply make things up, but that just isn’t the case when you’re a writer. Writer’s have the flexibility to use their full creativity to create stories that didn’t already exist. Help them to boast about that skill with this neat literary t shirt! And check out the other cool book shirts we’ve found on the internet while you’re at it!

#44. Literary Movies

A literary movie can be a great and cheap gift to get your writer inspired by other writers’ life stories. As long as it has at least a literary theme, I’d say it’s a good gift for a writer. Some of our favorites are Paterson , American Splendor , Capote , I Am Not Your Negro , and The End of The Tour ! But it might be a good idea to sneakily ask if they’ve seen it before buying it for them.

#45. Vintage Inspired Laptop Bag

Writers aren’t only writing at home. On the contrary, they’re writing at coffee shops, at libraries, at work, at the park, and almost anywhere else you can think of. And when they go to those places, they have to bring all of their things. A sturdy messenger bag is one of the most useful gifts for writers to help keep their writing supplies well organized and in place as they travel from place to place. They even have some that turn into backpacks!

#46. Books About Writing

If you still want to get your writer a physical book as a gift, you should consider giving them a book about writing. We know it’s difficult for everyone to know which books are the good ones, so we created this list of books about writing and publishing to help you get the exact right book for your writer. Bonus? They’re all small press and self-published books!

#47. Writing Prompt Journal

There are ways to combat writer’s block that don’t involve running away from your desk. One of those ways is for the writer to get out of that frame of mind and focus on something totally different. A writing prompt journal is one of the best gifts for writers that will exercise their creativity while also challenging them to continue to create.

#48. Poets & Writers Magazine Subscription

If you’re looking for one single magazine that will cater specifically to writers, then look no further. Poets & Writers magazine has been around since 1970 and is the nations largest non profit organization serving creative writers currently. In their monthly issues they address topics like how to find an agent, and how to promote your own book. They also have valuable interviews with notable writers, and information on literary grants and writing competitions.

#49. Typewriter Keyboard

There’s something nostalgic about hitting the keys of a typewriter. While an actual typewriter isn’t a very practical gift anymore, a typewriter keyboard can be fun, practical, and creative. It looks cool as a decoration and might inspire the writer in the house to pump out something incredible!

#50. Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Writing takes time (and many many drafts), so staring at a screen while they type for hours on end can be taxing on their vision. Did you know that’s mostly due to the blue light emitted from their computers and mobile devices? Well, a pair of blue light blocking glasses is usually pretty cheap and don’t require a prescription. This is among the cheaper gifts for writers, and the writer in your life’s eyes will thank you later.

Now, you have all the tools to up your gift giving game! Buying any of these gifts for writers will be a wonderful and welcome surprise, so go on out there and get gifting. We’re sure your writer will thank you for it. And if you didn’t find the gift you’re looking for, check out Gifts for Book Lovers!

About the Author

Jaylynn Korrell  is a nomadic writer currently based in Pennsylvania. She writes for Independent Book Review and GoodGiftLists.com .

Thank you for reading “ 50 Gifts for Writers (That They Actually Need) ” by Jaylynn Korrell. If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

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9 comments on “ 50 gifts for writers (that they actually need) – 2024 ”.

I love this list. So many things I wouldn’t have thought of! I kinda want to give myself a DIY writer’s retreat!

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Wow! I love this list. Thank you for sharing amazing ideas with us. Now i have got ideas for what i should gift to my favorite writer.

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31 BEST Gifts for Writers, Pros & Aspiring [2024 Gift Guide]

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Short on time? Our picks for the best gifts for writers are the  Writer’s Toolbox & Light Me While Writing Candle .

Help your favorite writer thrive when inspiration strikes with one of the best gifts for writers.

What is the best gift you can give to a writer? Well, you’re asking the right person– I am, after all, a writer.

Just like books, writers come in all different genres. 

The best gifts for poets might not be the same as the best gifts for creative writers. The best gifts for someone who writes short stories might differ from the best gifts for an author of historical novels. 

Ultimately, every writer needs a good pen, a handful of Post-it notes, and an empty notebook. But maybe you want to go above and beyond for the writer in your life. That’s where this list of gift ideas comes in.

I’ve tracked down a treasure trove of personalized gifts for writers that are sure to delight every type of wordsmith.

Whether you’re looking for writing accessories, subscriptions, decor accessories, or pieces of furniture– these are the best gifts for writers.

Table of Contents

#1 Light Me While Writing Candle 

When you’re looking for gifts for writers, one great idea is something that can help elevate their writing space. 

Candles make great gifts for writers during the holiday season and beyond. For example, I find lighting a candle changes my whole writing experience. The ‘write’ ambiance can make a major difference. 

This Light Me While Writing Candle has instructions in its title. It’s the perfect gift to help writers stay calm during stressful periods of writer’s block. 

The best part is that you can choose the scents: comfort spice, sea breeze, and vanilla bean. 

If you want even more options, this seller also offers other candle options within the same writing theme, such as Storytelling and Smells Like a Good Idea .

#2 Writer’s Toolbox

Does anyone else cringe at the saying, ‘get your creative juices flowing’?

But the meaning behind the phrase is important. Some days when I sit down to write, I feel stuck.

Writer’s block is bound to happen at some point in any writing process. 

That’s why gift ideas that help combat writer’s block make some of the best gifts for aspiring writers and season professionals alike.

The Writer’s Toolbox is like a writer’s emergency pack to save them from writer’s block.

It comes with 60 cards, each bearing a prompt or creative game designed specifically to help writers fix plot holes, spice up characters, and rethink content themes. 

Many writers love to get creative ideas and writing prompts. This is an ideal gift for getting started or getting unstuck.

#3 Magnetic Poetry Original Kit

If the writer you’re shopping for is a poet, a Magnetic Poetry Kit is a surefire winner.

Then again, I’m not a poet, and I love this gift idea for writers. It’s sure to inspire creativity and spark story ideas. 

These magnetic word pieces stick to any stainless steel surface. This kit’s flexibility and versatility can help an aspiring writer mix words around to get a feel for word choice and sentence structure.

They say Madonna used one of these kits to write her song “Candy Perfume Girl.”

Who knows–maybe new ideas or hit singles are waiting on your writer’s fridge. 

#4 Emotion Thesaurus 

 As a word nerd, I use a thesaurus consistently, and I firmly believe that a thesaurus is vital to any writer’s toolkit.

This specific thesaurus aims to convey emotion to readers in a remarkable and compelling way.

Nothing makes a writer happy like finding the perfect word. And a unique word is even better!

A gift that’s bound to give the creative writer in your life creative inspiration? That’s guaranteed to be a hit.

#5 RocketBook Reusable Notebook

Remember how I said one of the best gifts for writers is an empty notebook? Well, this is a continuously empty notebook.

With the Rocketbook notepad , you write on paper and then scan the notes you’ve taken into the Rocketbook app with your phone. 

After that, you wipe the page clean and start fresh!

While it’s not a waterproof notepad, it’s thin and portable. 

Purchasing the standard letter-size notebook comes with a compatible pen and microfiber cloth to help keep the notebook in good condition. A smaller notebook and mini pad are size options as well.

For the cover, you can either go for classic black or choose from fifteen other colors.

#6 Book Laptop Cover

This laptop cover looks like an old book, so it’s an excellent gift for a writer who is also a book lover. 

I know the few times I’ve seen someone with this laptop cover in person, I’ve oohed and ahhed. There’s something so fun about modern appliances with a vintage appearance, isn’t there?

(And for those who may be big animal lovers, while this leather looks authentic, don’t worry–it’s synthetic!)

#7 Silicone Keyboard Cover

I have a confession to make: I’m a fast typer…and a loud typer.

That’s why I use a silicone keyboard cover whenever I write in public. 

It keeps my keyboard clean and protected. Plus, it does everyone in the room a favor by keeping my typing quiet.

Because you may not know exactly what size or laptop brand your giftee uses, I’ve chosen a keyboard cover that comes in a universal size.

#8 Typewriter Keyboard

Another way to change a writer’s typing pattern is to get them a stylized keyboard.

This Atelus Retro-Style Typewriter Keyboard forces your hands and fingers to type differently than a flat keyboard simply by its physical design.

Some writers prefer intermittently using a keyboard like this, and others may prefer using it all the time! 

Luckily, all you need to do to get it working is plug in the USB, so it’s easy to switch back and forth between uses.

It comes in classic color choices like white and black, but you also have the option to go for colorful combinations.

#9 Fountain Pen

Fountain pens are hands-down the best gift to give a writer who’s all about tradition.

This old-fashioned gift may not be the right present for everyone, but these make the best gifts for writers with a flair for the classics. 

Fountain pens are traditional presents for high school and college graduations. They also make a nice gift for a birthday or job acceptance.

This Wordsworth set includes the standard fountain pen, a jar of ink, and four other pen tips–ranging from extra fine to broad lines.

If the special writer in your life enjoys challenges, this will be one of them. I’ve tried using a fountain pen before and found it quite tricky. It’s a skill to master!

#10 Reader Sculpture

This sculpture is called The Encircled Reader . The circle leading back into the book symbolizes the writing cycle.

It’s made of iron by Dayna B. Contemporary. You can choose a male or female figure– or one of each to use as bookends. 

This unique gift is one that someone may not purchase for themselves but would appreciate receiving. 

I can picture this on a desk or as decor in a writer’s office.

#11 Writer Hoodie

Looking for a gift for a girl who likes to write? Or perhaps you’re shopping for a gift for a guy who likes to write? In either case, this gender-neutral hoodie makes an awesome gift, no matter who you’re shopping for!

I love writing in coffee shops just as much as I love writing at home (I mean, I’m even writing this blog post in one now). 

You’ll look the part when you sport this at your local coffee shop. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy being cozy when they write?

#12 Coasters

Having a drink next to me is a key part of my writing routine. I’ve always got something by my side, whether it’s water, coffee, or tea.

So, naturally, I always have coasters on my desk. Nice coasters tailored toward writers make the perfect present. 

These coasters use neutral colors and standard newspaper text, meaning they’ll fit into various home styles. They’re backed with cork to prevent scratching or slipping.

#13 Heated Coaster

Is it silly to say this heated coaster changed my mornings?

Because of this coaster, I’ve cut down on so many trips to and from the microwave to reheat my coffee.

After I purchased one of these for myself, I began buying them for everyone in my life. This gift melts writing time, and the hours seem to slip by because my drink is consistently hot! 

#14 Punctuation Marks Poster

Wondering what to get an editor?

Choose something like this punctuation marks poster , which honors the work that editors do every day.

Of course, it’s unlikely any editor will need these reminders because punctuation marks are probably engrained in their brain!

But this stylized design would make a great decor piece in their office or workspace.

You can choose the poster’s size, frame, and color combinations.

#15 Writer Collage Print

This collage print is one of the best gifts for writers looking to decorate their writing space.

Based on actual vintage patents for various writing equipment, this writer’s collage print is available in a selection of different sizes and colors.

Glancing up at a poster like this during a writing session will help the writer in your life remember the tools that writers have relied on throughout history.

#16 Just Start Sign

This sign is the perfect gift for a writer’s desk, and the short saying has such an impact.

My college mentor gave me this advice when I was writing my thesis. I was struggling to understand the overall direction of my paper, and it was preventing me from making any progress.  My mentor would remind me just to start writing. 

If your writer friend is anything like me, they get caught up in perfectionism. This sign can be a daily reminder to shed that worry and just start where they are!

#17 Writer Mug 

When it comes to inexpensive gifts for writers, mugs are a good choice. They’re the type of gifts for writers and readers that they can use on the daily.

This particular mug features a print of a bookshelf displaying the spines of titles like War and Peace, Grapes of Wrath, To Kill a Mockingbird, and others. 

Many writers appreciate the classic novels–some of which you can find on this mug.

I love traditional gifts and traditional designs, but a funny gift is always appreciated. Opt for this comical mug that states, “I’m a writer; anything you say or may be used in a story.”

If you ask writers whether they’ve ever pulled inspiration from real-life experiences for their work, I guarantee their answer will be yes. 

Psst–a mug with the heated coaster makes a great gift duo!

#18 Writer’s Clock

Time is a writer’s greatest gift– or worst enemy! 

If the writer in your life is always racing a deadline or losing track of time at their writing desk, then this writer’s clock will be a welcome addition to their office decor.

This simple, black-and-white traditional clock features an illustration of assorted fountain pens, with the phrase “Weapons of Mass Creation,” underneath it.

Your literary loved one will appreciate this reminder of their pen’s mightiness.

#19 Blue Light Blocking Glasses

One day a coworker of mine brought up how badly her eyes hurt from looking at her screen all day. I grabbed my blue light-blocking glasses from my bag and handed them to her.

She came back to me at the end of the day, talking about what a difference they made!

Blue light glasses like these do not have any prescriptions built in, so anyone can use them–people with perfect vision or people who wear contacts.

On the other hand, if your writer wears prescription glasses, they may already have blue light protection built in.

This pack comes with three classic pairs in three classic colors. More importantly, they come with slipcovers to protect the pair you throw in a bag for writing trips to the local coffee shop!

#20 Noise Cancelling Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones are a great gift for tuning out the world. Sometimes, that’s exactly what writers need to do. 

Beats headphones connect via Bluetooth–they’re portable, and you won’t need to deal with messy cord situations. 

A quick charge of ten minutes gives you three hours of playback time (a full charge will provide you with 22 hours). 

If the pricey Beats headphones are a little out of reach for your wallet, the Srhythm NC25 Wireless Headphones are an excellent budget option offering a similar long battery life and noise-canceling capabilities.

#21 Books About Writing

If you’re looking for great gift ideas for writers, start with books. Writers are usually book lovers. And any book lover will love to receive more books (guilty as charged).

Books make a good gift for an author because they remind writers exactly why they love writing and how to improve. 

Maybe one of these literary gifts will resonate so deeply with the writer in your life that they bring it to their book club (or start one because of it!).

Here are a handful of titles even the most well-versed authors suggest when you need a writing pick-me-up.

If your friend spends all of their time reading, they might also like something from my guide to the best gifts for book lovers .

Check Price on Amazon:

#22 Book Stand

Often we find inspiration from our favorite author, quote, or passage. 

Using this book stand will help your favorite writer friend keep their notes open without taking up too much space.

This bamboo stand comes in various size options. You can bend all sizes to five different angles, and metal prongs keep your pages open and in place.

While this book stand can hold physical books, it’d also make a great way to display papers that a writer may use to edit their work or read articles for research. 

Keeping papers upright keeps the writer in your life from having to crane their neck down to read on a flat desk surface.

#23 Laptop Stand (Swivel)

For the past few years, I had been using a clear acrylic laptop stand that could only hold my laptop on at a 90-degree angle. The aesthetic drew me in…but the functionality was not there. 

I recently purchased one of these swivel stands , and it’s changed the game for using my laptop.

Because of the various angles and directions you can position this laptop stand-in, you have so much more freedom when it comes to seeing your screen.

It makes your laptop computer feel like a desktop or a monitor, which helps when writing for extended periods.

Your favorite writer’s back and wrist will thank you too! 

#24 Space Therapy Foot Rest

You know how when you think of a particular food, you start to crave it? I think that can happen with items, too…and my feet could use this footrest right about now!

This Space Therapy Pro footrest has multiple levels, making it adjustable to different heights. You can also separate the pieces, allowing you to spread your feet apart. 

The zippered cover makes it easy to remove and wash. We can all understand why that’d be helpful!

Thoughtful gifts like these show that you’re keeping you writer friend’s comfort and well-being in mind. 

#25 Back and Neck Massager 

Sometimes I forget that nail salon chairs aren’t the only place you can have a Shiatsu massage.

This Neck and Back Massager is simple to use at home. You can use it as a daily treat or to target specific muscle pain with its heating option.

Just like the footrest, I’m envisioning how nice this would be to have around my neck as I write this article!

#26 Lap Desk 

Most writers will admit they’ve worked in their bed before…I know I have. 

A perfect gift for those kinds of people is a lap desk. It’s one of the best gifts for writers who enjoy working in unconventional spaces.

This lap desk has you covered with components like an ergonomic wrist rest pad, built-in mouse pad, phone holder, and multiple height options.

Gifting a lap desk might help increase your writer’s productivity, knowing they now have the option to write anywhere.

#27 Proper Office Chair

I’ll admit, I’ve been needing a good office chair for a long time now, and I just haven’t gotten around to purchasing one. Receiving one as a gift would be a godsend for me

I’m asking you now–be that person to the writer in your life.

The only difficulty with giving this gift is you may not know what their writing space looks like or what furniture style they prefer.

However, sometimes the most basic and simple pieces make great gifts because they are the most tried and true. 

This chair will have writers comfortable enough to keep saying to themselves, “Just one more chapter…”.

#28 Standing Desk Automatic

If you’re trying to search out the best gift for writers, the first step is to consider where it all begins–at a writing desk. 

A great way to enhance any writing desk is to make it…versatile!

These standing desks come in two standard heights and six color combinations. They’re easily moveable and have a clean design–meaning they’re a blank canvas for the writer to decorate. 

A desk like this will encourage writers to split their writing time between sitting and standing.

It’s a practical gift that writers will be grateful for.

You can choose a manual crank or automatic to get the desk the adequate height. What do you think the writer in your life will prefer?

#29 Massage or Weekend Away

Let’s talk luxury gifts for writers. Sometimes what writers really need is a change of scenery.

One of the best gifts writers love is a weekend away. Book travel tickets for your writer friend and/or a place to stay for a night. 

Whether it’s a location near or far from where they live, a change from a daily routine can have a huge impact on our perspective.

The writers in your life will see this as a significant and thoughtful gift.

#30 Online Writing Classes (Writer’s Digest)

There’s a lot to learn about writing. If you’re looking for the best gifts for budding writers or the best gifts for young writers, consider a credit to a site like Writer’s Digest. 

You could purchase a subscription to the Writer’s Digest Magazine or Writer’s Digest University classes. 

Alternative options include sites like Publisher’s Weekly, Masterclass, or a session with a writing coach. 

Even if the person you’re gifting has experience with writing, a refresher or class on writing can help them elevate their writing craft and writing career.

#31 Subscriptions (Grammarly)

No matter how talented your favorite writer is, they’ve made mistakes while typing. That’s where writing tools like Grammarly come in.

Grammarly is a writing tool that reviews spelling, grammar, punctuation, and overall writing clarity. 

While there is a free version, Grammarly offers a premium membership to further elevate your writing.

While you can’t purchase a Grammarly gift card, you can get your writer a monthly or yearly subscription!

Practical writing gifts like these will help your favorite writer have their next project ready to send to any literary agents or literary magazines.

(If you don’t think Grammarly is a good fit, choose a credit or subscription to another platform like Audible or Kindle).

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Monroe Dziersk

Monroe Dziersk is a gift giver by nature and an expert at finding gifts to show the people in your life you care. She comes from a family of designers, adding a unique flair to her gift-giving method.

Monroe was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. After discovering a world outside of Midwest winters, she was quickly drawn to the southeastern coast of the United States. While attending Elon University, she studied abroad in Florence, Italy. A switch was flipped, and she quickly fell in love with European culture and lifestyle. You can often find her accompanied by a good book and her calico cat.

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Home » Gifts by Recipient » 70 Gifts for Writers in 2024 (Picked by a Writer)

70 Gifts for Writers in 2024 (Picked by a Writer)

I’m one of those people who’s happiest while browsing the stationery aisle at an office supply store. Maybe it’s the smell or something, but all those pens and notebooks so neatly organized, just feels right. Even so, there are many great gift ideas out there for writers besides pens and notebooks. As a writer, I’m always on the lookout for the latest and greatest gadgets and knickknacks made for those of us who wield the pen (or keyboard). And anyone who’s written anything substantial knows that just the right pen, or notebook, or keyboard, or e-ink tablet can make all the difference.

But you’ll find a lot more than that on this list as well. In our search, we found everything from literary socks to literal book bags to melting wax stamp kits, and that’s just scratching the surface. There are tools out there that address not only the way you write, but also the space in which you write, and the way that you advertise it for your friends and strangers alike. We also found some ideas that are savvier than anything else, resources to help you successfully market yourself and finally get your work into the hands of a publisher.

Whether you’re looking for something more quirky, something more useful, or a nice fusion of both, you’ll find it on this list of the best gifts for writers.

1. The End Dramatic Bookend

2. encouraging coffee mug, 3. expandable wooden bookshelf, 4. freewrite, 5. typewriter keyboard, 6. library book pencil holder, 7. on writing by stephen king, 8. nuance dragon naturally speaking software, 9. aqua notes, 10. literary socks, 11. noise-cancelling headphones, 12. literary jewelry, 13. novel tea, 14. dead writers’ perfume, 15. desk lamp organizer, 16. book candles, 17. literary action figures, 18. library of congress card catalog, 19. literary cookbook, 20. bookshelf shower curtain, 21. kindle unlimited subscription, 23. the writer’s toolbox, 24. scrivener writing software, 25. livescribe pen, 26. led pen, 27. bathtub book caddy, 28. tequila mockingbird: cocktails with a literary twist, 29. refrigerator scrabble tiles, 30. book-nerd apparel, 31. mountainsmith adventure office messenger bag, 32. domain name, 33. e-ink monitor, 34. litographs t-shirt, 35. laptop lap desk, 36. writer’s market, 37. typewriter coaster set, 38. once upon a time storytelling game, 39. the unofficial harry potter cookbook, 40. the 3 a.m. epiphany: uncommon writing exercises that transform your fiction, 41. a writer’s block, 42. elegy for a dead world, 43. quiet: the power of introverts in a world that can’t stop talking, 44. the emotion thesaurus: a writer’s guide to character expression, 45. writer emergency pack, 46. people of walmart adult coloring book, 47. zen garden, 48. blue light-blocking booklight, 49. the storymatic, 50. smythson notebooks, 51. typewriter, 52. kinesis freestyle edge mechanical keyboard, 53. scribedelivery goodie box, 54. novelist at work warning sign, 55. i’m silently correcting your grammar shirt, 56. magnetic poetry kit, 57. the self-publisher’s ultimate resource guide, 58. the well-fed writer, 59. vintage sealing wax stamp maker kit, 57. antique feather writing quill, 58. ergonomic desk chair, 59. winsome wood writing desk, 60. bagatelle studio book bags, 61. the elements of style, illustrated, 62. writer’s retreat, 63. write drunk, edit sober flask, 64. wooden folding book light, 65. remarkable paper tablet, 66. muk luks, 68. bluetooth speaker, 70. writer’s digest literary calendar, list of gifts for writers.

I’ve included many creative and unique gifts for writers on this list. Simply scroll through this list and pick out your favorite gift or gifts!

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($19.79 at the time of publication)

There are about a thousand of these dramatic bookends floating around the Internet. You can find bookends that make it look like you’ve skewered your fiction section with a katana, for example. I like the simplicity of this particular bookend. The base has a little guy on it and the books lean at an angle, making it look like they’re about to fall on top of the little guy. It’s the simple things like this that give one’s library or reading space just a little more character. Like the typewriter coasters, I love to have things like this around, if for no other reason than to give house guests something to compliment.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($9.26 at the time of publication)

Most writers would probably hook up a caffeine IV drip directly to their arm if they could, but the majority will settle for a good old, standard coffee mug. They’ll be even happier to settle if the mug has something clever or encouraging written on the side like, “Please do not disturb the writer, she may put you in a book and kill you.” That’s what this particular mug reads, anyway, but you can find a lot of different mugs with a lot of different phrases on the side. Some are more encouraging, such as, “I write. What’s your superpower?” Or, “Write epic shit.” You know your writer best, but whatever route you want to go she’s sure to be pleased.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($31.99 at the time of publication)

The name of the Expandable Wooden Bookshelf is pretty self-explanatory, so I won’t go too much into it. I will say that it is the perfect size for your desk or any small end table. And the fact that it’s expandable means you can adjust it to be whatever size you need. It’s another one of those charming-but-functional ideas I’m so fond of. It’s a really quaint way to upgrade your bookshelf real estate. And let’s face it, what writer isn’t in need of more book space?

Buy or Read More on Freewrite Here ($549.00 at the time of publication)

If you’re feeling extra generous and you want to get the writer in your life a gift that will make them love you forever, consider the Freewrite Smart Typewriter. It combines the simplicity of a typewriter with the convenience of modern technology. Basically, it’s a small laptop in the shape of a typewriter, with a few key differences. Firstly, the Freewrite is meant solely for writing. You can’t browse the internet, download games, applications, or access any other of the numerous avenues of distraction that are so accessible on a standard laptop. The Freewrite is simply a screen and a keyboard. While it does have WiFi capability, this is for the sole purpose of backing up your files to the Cloud.

The Freewrite also comes with a full-size keyboard for maximum typing comfort and speed. But my favorite thing about the Smart Typewriter is the e-ink display. Instead of a bright LCD screen, the Freewrite monitor looks like a piece of paper. It’s easier on the eyes and doesn’t glare, even in direct sunlight.

Astrohaus has now come out with a new version of Freewrite called the Freewrite Traveler. It looks much more like a laptop, only smaller and thinner. All in all, it has the same features and functionality of the first generation Freewrite, built into a more compact design. The Traveler is perfect for anyone who travels a lot or just likes to write away from home.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($499.00 at the time of publication)

“The Qwerkywriter S is the original typewriter-inspired mechanical keyboard.” Some writers like a more tactile experience when it comes to their keyboard, and maybe you’re one of those writers. For me, it’s the clicking of the keys that sets the mood, gets the vibe going, and makes me feel like I’m really gettin’ things done. The Qwerkywriter comes with USB and wireless capabilities, so you can hook it up to any device you desire, including your tablet. Not only that, but the typewriter keyboard looks pretty darn authentic, and produces that great feel and clack you were looking for.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($17.99 at the time of publication)

I think it’s really important to add as much character to your writing space as you possibly can. The space in which you work can have a huge impact on your creative output. That’s why I love gizmos like this library book pencil holder. It’s the perfect combination of functional and quaint, and brings exactly the type of character that I’m talking about. Just like your computer or your pen, your space is another tool in your writer’s toolbox, so it’s always a smart idea to outfit it for optimal performance.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($15.14 at the time of publication)

A book on writing may seem like a fairly standard choice for a writer’s gift, and there’s no doubt that it’s a safe route, but I do not kid when I say that Stephen King’s On Writing changed my writing life. It gave me permission to write the way I’d always wanted to, rather than the way all my classes always told me I had to. King breaks his process down and walks you through his development as an author, step by step. He never minces words, but he never tells you what to do, either. His approach is one of, “This is the way I work, and the way I work works for me, and maybe it’ll work for you, too.” And so far, it has.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($63.99 at the time of publication)

There are some writers out there who like to dispense with the pen, paper, and keyboard entirely, and instead, like to transfer their thoughts directly to the computer screen. If that sounds like you, you might want to consider purchasing the Dragon Naturally Speaking dictation software, made by Nuance. Computers have their own built-in dictation software these days, but they really can’t hold a candle to a professional provider. Dragon Naturally Speaking Software learns as it goes, so it starts to recognize the words and names you use the most. It’s the perfect way to eliminate as many obstacles between your thoughts and the page as you possibly can.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($9.50 at the time of publication)

Every writer has had the feeling of frustration that comes with thinking of a good idea at the absolute worst of times. To that, there’s nothing more annoying than when you have a great idea right in the middle of a hot shower. But with these Aqua Notes, the writer in your life won’t have to worry about all his genius ideas ever again. It’s a waterproof notepad that suctions to the wall of their shower. It comes complete with a waterproof pencil, so they can record all those moments of shower-induced brilliance.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($8.00 at the time of publication)

If there are two things all writers love, it’s books and socks. So with these literary socks, you’re practically giving them two gifts in one! The Literary Socks are perfect for curling up by the fireplace, notebook in hand, preferably on a rainy Sunday with a mug of hot chocolate close by. The link above will take you to a nice pair of lavender Jane Austen socks, but you can find themes for many other literary figures, such as Shakespeare, and the same company even has a “Banned Book” line.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($349.00 at the time of publication)

Maintaining focus is absolutely crucial to a writer’s process, and nothing puts you in the zone quite like a good pair of noise-canceling headphones. I’m someone who gets very easily distracted by even the tiniest noise, and I have roommates to top it off. Very few writers have the luxury of working in total solitude, so noise-canceling headphones are a great gift idea.

This pair of headphones is made by Bose, so you know they’re going to be pricier than some alternatives. However, Bose hasn’t let me down yet, and when it comes to investing in the writing process, the price is definitely worth it.

Buy or Read More on Etsy Here ($34.07 at the time of publication)

This is a great gift for the more fashionable writers out there. This bracelet comes emblazoned with the line, “She is too fond of books and it has turned her brain,” a quotation attributed to Louisa May Alcott, the writer of Little Women. It’s a great way to let someone show off their love for writing in style.

But don’t restrict yourself to bracelets. You can find many other types of literary Jewelry, including Jane Austen necklaces and Oscar Wilde cufflinks.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($13.50 at the time of publication)

I gave up drinking coffee after it started giving me the shakes (in a bad way). Nevertheless, I like to have something to drink while I write, even if it’s just because I like to keep my hands busy while I think. Tea was the next logical step, and I’ve become rather fond of it. So, if you know of any dabblers in the authorial arts who also happen to be tea drinkers, this Novel Tea is a great gift idea. It’s Victorian-themed, and each tea bag comes with a literary quote printed on it from the likes of Austen, Dickens, and other literary titans. Now the burgeoning author in your life can get their caffeine fix and feel inspired at the same time. As the packaging says, “Read ‘em and steep!”

Buy or Read More Here ($5.00 at the time of publication)

From the company Immortal Perfumes comes a line of Dead Writers’ Perfumes that will make you smell as though you’ve walked right out of a Victorian novel. The webpage describes the scents as being suitable for either sex, and that they evoke the “feeling of paging through yellowed copies of Hemingway, Shakespeare, Fitzgerald, Poe, and more.” The perfume combines notes of black tea, vetiver, clove, musk, vanilla, heliotrope, and tobacco, making for a rather rustic aroma.

The company also offers free samples, so there’s no need to leap before you look. You simply select the perfume you’d like to try on the website, and they’ll process it within 3-5 business days.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($26.41 at the time of publication)

Every writer could stand to be a little more organized, and this desk lamp/organizer is a great way to help them get a leg up on their desk clutter. It features two slots and three small bins, great for storing notebooks, tablets, or your phone, as well as keeping all those little knickknacks (paperclips, rubber bands, etc.) in check. The base of the lamp also includes a two-prong outlet so that you don’t have to keep reaching under your desk every time to plug in your phone, or your laptop, or your Freewrite.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($24.99 at the time of publication)

I know I just talked about how important your writing space is, but I’m going to talk about it again. Another way you can optimize your space is by manipulating the ambiance. And the best way to manipulate the ambiance, by far, is with a scented candle. These Book Candles give off the most literary scents of all. Some of them smell like antique books, exuding an aroma of worn leather and dried parchment. Another candle advertises that “new book” smell that you can only find at a Barnes and Noble. But my personal favorite is the Ancient Scrolls candle, which smells like whatever ancient scrolls smell like.

Scented candles can be a great way to hone your focus and help transport your mind to another world.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($29.97 at the time of publication)

Writing is a solitary endeavor, and if you’ve ever felt yourself getting a bit lonely, or perhaps confiding in a person whom you later realize exists entirely in your own head, you’re not alone. We could all use a little company at times, and these literary action figures are the perfect solution to your problem of solitude. Now you can write in the presence of literary titans like Poe, Austen, Dickens, and Wilde. The vinyl action figures are finely detailed, down to the very specific expressions on each author’s face. The Poe action figure even comes with a little raven on his shoulder.

Buy or Read More at Barns and Nobel Here ($19.95 at the time of publication)

This is a great gift for any writing or literature nerd. These notecards are perfect replicas of the original cards used to catalog famous works in the library of congress. The set comes with thirty cards, each cataloging a different culturally significant work of literature. Think of it as a little box of inspiration. The cards come inside a wooden replica card catalog box for safekeeping. The box also includes tabbed dividers for maximum organization. This is the perfect gift for writers and literary geeks of all persuasions.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($19.69 at the time of publication)

Good prose can help you step into another world, see the things the characters see, touch what they touch, but at the end of the day, a description can only get you so far. A literary cookbook is a perfect tool to help you bring just a little slice of fantasy to your dinner table. You can try this cookbook, called A Feast of Ice and Fire, if you’re a fan of George R. R. Martin’s Ice and Fire Series. Alternatively, there are many other literary cookbooks out there. You can try your hand at some pioneer dishes out of The Little House Cookbook, a collection of recipes inspired by Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House on the Prairie series. Or, if you want to bring a little Victorian flair to your next meal, you could pick up Dinner With Mr. Darcy, of course inspired by Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($29.95 at the time of publication)

Why not share a little literary love and bring your fondness for the library into the bathroom with this Bookshelf Shower Curtain. It’s made by CafePress, a company that’s produced some pretty great products. The Bookshelf Shower Curtain is professionally printed and actually looks super real, down to the titles printed on the spines of the books. If you’re not careful, you’ll think you’re in a real library, rather than the bathroom of a literary geek.

Buy or Read More on Amazon (price varies)

If you know a reader who loves their Kindle, a Kindle Unlimited Subscription might be the perfect gift. Subscribers to Kindle Unlimited have access to over 1 million titles, as well as thousands of audiobooks, all for 10 bucks a month. You can find everything from famous classics to current bestsellers to brand new authors publishing their first e-book. The subscriber can cancel anytime, and the first 30 days come free, so they can explore all the available shelves to their heart’s content.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($89.99 at the time of publication)

A Kindle Unlimited Subscription won’t do you any good without a Kindle, so we figured we’d make that the next list item. I, for one, adore my Kindle Oasis, and I only read a physical book if there isn’t an e-version available. I know there’s a lot of people out there who are skeptical of e-books, as they prefer the “tactile feel” of a physical book. But aren’t the words on the page the only thing that matters in the end? Anyway, I’d be willing to bet that a lot of those physical book advocates have never actually used a Kindle, and I’d bet even more that they’d be instant converts if they did.

The screen of the Kindle is designed with e-ink technology, so it looks just like the pages of a book. But the advantages don’t stop there. The Oasis also comes with a backlight, as well as a “light-warmth” meter, which essentially matches the shade of light on your screen to that of your surroundings. The light-warmth meter is by far the best feature Kindle has released recently. Not only that, but the battery lasts for days at a time, it’s a great size, it’s super convenient to look up words as you go without having to reach for your phone, and I could honestly go on forever, but I won’t.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($21.72 at the time of publication)

The Writer’s Toolbox was designed by a veteran creative writing teacher, and it’s a great gift for developing writers. The kit comes with a 64-page booklet filled with exercises and guidance that emphasizes a “right-brain” approach to writing. The kit also comes with creative writing and story prompts designed to get the creative juices flowing. Lastly, the Writer’s Toolbox includes a spinner that will decide the fate of your story so that you don’t have to and forces you into creativity by throwing out random nonsequiturs and plot twists.

The Writer’s Toolbox is definitely geared toward writers still in the developmental stage, but it could make a great gift for a more seasoned penman looking for a little throwaway practice.

Buy or Read More Here ($41.65 at the time of publication)

There are a lot of options out there when it comes to writing software. But there is one application that in my opinion stands far above the competition. That application is called Scrivener, and it is by far the best writing software I’ve come across. Not only does Scrivener perform all the basic functions of standard writing software like Word or Pages, but it comes with a whole range of unique functions that are eminently useful for any writer.

Among my favorite Scrivener features are the “Corkboard” and the “Composition Mode.” The Corkboard is essentially a digital bulletin board. You can type up each of your individual story beats on a notecard, then see all your notecards displayed at once in the Corkboard. This is an amazing way to help you visualize the literal progression of your story.

Composition Mode removes everything else from the screen except the words on the page. I’ve found it invaluable for helping me focus and shutting out distractions. Composition Mode also has a focus feature that dims all the other words on the page except the paragraph or sentence you are currently typing. Again, this is an incredible feature that helps immensely with focus.

These are just a few of Scrivener’s endless list of features. The software also includes tools for organizing your plot, settings, and characters. It even includes a feature that will compile your documents into a professional manuscript, so you can be ready to send it directly to publishers. You might think that with all these benefits that Scrivener would be pretty expensive, but at just $49, it’s actually super affordable.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($142.61 at the time of publication)

If you’re a writer who likes to be prepared, this Livescribe Pen might be just the gadget you’re looking for. It’s a pen and an audio recorder all at once. Just hit the power switch and the pen starts recording everything you hear, so whether you’re sitting in on a writing seminar, conducting an interview, or just talking to yourself, the Livescribe Pen will make sure you never miss a word.

The Livescribe Pen also comes with its own Livescribe software, compatible with both Mac and Windows computers. The software allows you to plug the pen into your computer and upload all your notes and audio recordings for instant reference. Now you never have to let a good idea slip away again.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($7.95 at the time of publication)

This LED Pen is the same gadget that film critics use to take notes in dark movie theaters. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve woken up in the middle of the night with an amazing idea for a story, only to let it go because I was too lazy to turn on the lamp (or I just couldn’t bear the thought of doing that to my eyeballs). If I’d had an LED Pen, I could have jotted a quick note in my notebook, no lamp or eyeball trauma required.

This is also a great pen to have if you just like to write in the dark.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($29.98 at the time of publication)

Yes, this bathtub book caddy is probably one of the most amazing inventions ever created. And yes, it is the perfect way to enjoy a book in the tub. But it is also so, so much more than just a book caddy. The bathtub book caddy comes not only with a metal rack to prop up your book, but also with a slot for your phone, a hook for your loofah, AND a wine glass holder. They don’t lie when they call this the Ultimate Bath Accessory.

Fair warning: users may find themselves never wanting to step out of the bath again.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($11.99 at the time of publication)

This literary mixology book goes hand-in-hand with the literary cookbook we listed earlier. The book features 65 delicious cocktail recipes, each paired with wry commentary on some of history’s most famous novels. Here are a few examples of the drinks you can make with the help of the Tequila Mockingbird: The Pitcher of Dorian Grey Goose, The Last of the Mojitos, Romeo and Julep, Vermouth the Bell Tolls, and approximately 60 others that I don’t have room to name here.

The Tequila Mockingbird also includes recipes for bar bites, as well as ideas for drinking games. With this book on hand, you’ll never be caught unprepared for book club again.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($9.93 at the time of publication)

There’s nothing quite as entertaining as fridge poetry, or in this case, as a game of fridge scrabble. The Refrigerator Scrabble Tiles are manufactured by the official makers of Scrabble, and include a full set of letter tiles, plus triple-letter, triple-word, and double-word tiles, for a total of 112 pieces. They’re great for playing an actual game of scrabble (you know, your roommate makes a move when she goes to the kitchen to get the wine, you make a move when you come to get the cheese, and so on), but they’re even better for leaving helpful messages for your housemates like, “Clean up your dang dishes!” for example. And the best part is that the more creative you are with your messages, the more points you get!

Buy or Read More on Out of Print Here ($25.00 at the time of publication)

Nerds can be fashionable too! Said no one ever, until Out of Print came along and started crushing it in the literary-geek fashion arena. At the end of the day, Out of Print is a geek-apparel (specifically book-geek apparel) company, but they’re honestly killing the game with an amazing selection of t-shirts, hoodies, hats, tote bags–you name it, they’ve got it. The designs look really cool, allowing you to show off your love of reading and look good doing it. And once you’ve got your Out of Print apparel, you can throw it up on your Instagram with #BooksWornWell and possibly get featured on the Out of Print Instagram page!

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($64.70 at the time of publication)

Now if you’re a writer who prefers to write away from home, or who likes to write away from home some of the time, or who has an inclination for travel, this messenger bag is perfect for you. The bag comes with a padded sleeve compartment that can fit tablets and laptops up to 15.4 inches. The main compartment also includes interior pockets for extended organization, a sleeve on the side for your water bottle, and it looks slick to boot. As Bilbo said, “It’s a dangerous business, going out your door.” We couldn’t agree more, and if you do decide to take that dangerous first step, you’ll need to be prepared. Whatever you consider crucial to your survival, there’s sure to be room for it in the Mountainsmith Messenger Bag.

Buy or Read More on Bluehost Here ($12.99 and up at the time of publication)

If you’re looking for an out-of-the-box idea for a writer’s gift, consider getting them a domain name for their own website. Most experts would agree that a strong web presence is essential in this day and age for building an audience. However, many writers might not have the time or the savviness to start a website on their own. Gifting them a domain name is a great way to help them kick-start their career.

If you do decide to get someone a domain name, you might have to forgo the surprise element and run it by them first.

There are a number of web hosting sites to choose from, but Bluehost is a good one to look into. They have some great deals for people starting their first website, and affordable pricing plans starting at less than $3/month.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($1199.00 at the time of publication)

Though it might seem counterintuitive, sitting in front of a computer all day can be really hard on your body. You have to contend with back pain, your legs cramping, all that fun stuff. But something else you have to deal with is staring at a bright LCD screen for hours on end. This can actually be really hard on your eyes, not to mention the exposure to all that blue light can affect your sleeping patterns. A lot of browsers and operating systems these days are coming out with Dark or Night Modes to help alleviate this issue, but even these modes still emit blue light and can put strain on the eyes. For writers with sensitive eyes, or who just don’t care for staring at a bright screen all day, you might want to look into getting an e-ink monitor. These types of monitors are made with the same e-ink technology as Kindles. In other words, the screen looks like the pages of a book. The advantage to these screens is that they don’t emit the same harsh backlight that normal LCD monitors do. This means they are much easier on the eyes, and don’t have the same blue-light sleep-hindering effect that plague traditional monitors.

Buy or Read More on Litographs Here ($34.00 at the time of publication)

From a distance, the Litographs t-shirt looks like any other. But get up close, and you realize that what you thought was a pattern is actually the entire first chapter of Moby Dick imprinted on the fabric. This is one of the best t-shirt ideas I’ve come across while making this list. You’ve always wanted to step inside your favorite book, well, now Litographs has made that possible. What more could a literature geek want? And don’t worry, you aren’t restricted to Moby Dick, and you certainly aren’t restricted to t-shirts. Litographs carries a lot of other great products including pillows, blankets, and infinity scarves.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($39.99 at the time of publication)

There is nothing on this earth better than writing in bed. It’s my favorite way to work in the morning because I like to put as few obstacles between myself and the page as possible. Anyone who feels the same way will appreciate a laptop desk like this one. The desk is wide enough to fit a laptop up to 17 inches wide. The stand has five adjustable heights, and it tilts up to 35 degrees. But the best thing about this desk is the versatility. You can use it in bed, on the couch, on your desk to make a standing station, or you can use it in bed…you get the idea.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($21.39 at the time of publication)

Writer’s Digest publishes a new Writer’s Market book every year, and they are hands-down the best resources available to new and aspiring writers. Writer’s Market is a massive overview of publishing opportunities, book publishers, consumer and trade magazines, contests and awards, and literary agents. The most recent editions now include a playwriting and screenwriting section as well. You’ll also find helpful articles about the process of getting published, and the business of writing in general. This is an all-around amazing resource, and no matter what kind of writing you do, you can find a market for it with the help of this book.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($23.99 at the time of publication)

Why restrict ambiance to your writing space alone? Why not spruce up the rest of the house (namely, the coffee table) with the help of these typewriter coasters? This is one of many quaint and charming coaster sets to be found, but what sets this one apart is that it comes with a typewriter-shaped holder for the coasters when they’re not in use. Which is amazing, because there’s nothing more annoying than a rogue coaster. I love filling my house with little knickknacks like the typewriter coasters. They make great conversation starts, and your book club is sure to get a kick out of them.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($19.07 at the time of publication)

Once Upon a Time is a storytelling card game in which one player is the Storyteller, and the other players are the characters. Throughout the course of the game, the Storyteller attempts to guide the plot toward her Ending Card by using the Story cards at her disposal. The other players have the opportunity to interrupt her and become the new Storyteller. Basically, the object of the game is to control the narrative by guiding the story toward your Ending card. This is a great collaborative card game for both book-lovers and non-book lovers alike. The only prerequisite is that you enjoy a good story.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($10.95 at the time of publication)

This Harry Potter cookbook is perfect for anyone who calls themself a fan of the series. It comes with over 150 magical recipes that are great for “wizards and non-wizards alike.” You can learn to make Treacle Tart (Harry’s favorite dessert), Molly’s Meat Pies (Molly Weasley’s specialty), or even Pumpkin Pasties, which I’ve always thought sounded delicious. This cookbook combines cooking and creativity and imagination in a way that is sure to get kids excited about cooking for themselves. But it’s also great in general for anyone looking to bring a little magical flair to their cooking adventures.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($6.60 at the time of publication)

Brian Kiteley, author and director of the University of Denver’s creative writing program, puts 15 years of experience to work in this book of writing exercises. The 3 A.M. Epiphany contains over 200 exercises designed to help you get your creative juices flowing. Each exercise is a different creative experiment meant to help you break out of the slump of routine and revitalize your stale writing patterns. Not only are the exercises themselves helpful, but the author brings his own wisdom and experience to the table in the form of useful side notes and descriptions. This is an essential resource for any writer, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been putting pen to paper for some time now.

Buy or Read More at Writers Block Here ($13.98 at the time of publication)

You’ve heard of writer’s block, and more than likely experienced it if you’re reading this list. Well, here’s a literal Writer’s Block for your consideration. It’s a solid cube of walnut, small enough to fit on your desk, with the words “Writer’s Block” carved into the side. So what is the Writer’s Block actually for, you ask? Well, how you use the Writer’s Block is up to you. Perhaps you make it a paperweight, use it to trap all those rogue manuscript pages. Or, maybe you just set it in your eye-line as a kind of reverse-psychology motivator. There are any number of ways you could make use of this physical pun. And who said simplicity wasn’t a virtue? This is easily one of the best gifts for writers out there!

Buy or Read More Here ($14.99 at the time of publication)

Elegy for a Dead World is one of the coolest concepts for a video game I’ve ever heard of. It’s a game about writing fiction, and the basic premise is this: you’re an explorer flying through outer space. Along the way, you encounter three worlds that were once home to long-dead societies. Your job is to write the story of each of these societies, giving them the elegy they deserve.

The game is heavily inspired by the works of Keats, Byron, and Shelly, so it’s especially great if you’re a fan of that trio. However, this game is amazing for writers everywhere. The missions offer 27 different challenges, pushing you outside your comfort zone with prompts to help you create poetic narratives about dead worlds.

There aren’t many games about writing fiction, so this is a great one to pick up for writers and non-writers alike.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($9.99 at the time of publication)

If you’re like me, you’re probably tired of hearing about the marvels and advantages of extroversion. So rarely is introversion given the same positive status, and introverts the same praise. But with Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, author Susan Cain sets out to right that wrong. She begins by pointing out how many of the most famous and influential authors are introverts. These authors include the likes of Rosa Parks, Chopin, and Doctor Suess, and that’s just to name a few. She then goes on to argue for the value of introversion and what society loses by failing to value it at all.

Quiet is a fantastic read for all those introverts who have ever found themselves feeling just a little bit underappreciated. It will help you see the value of turning inward within yourself, which is an amazing confidence booster. Sometimes we just need to hear it from someone who knows what they’re talking about.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($10.49 at the time of publication)

It can be a huge challenge for a writer to convey a character’s emotion to a reader. Or, at least it can be challenging to do it in a way that is unique and compelling. And even if you know what you’re trying to say, it can be a chore in itself to decide which of the gazillion different ways to describe an emotion you want to use. Enter The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression. The book is essentially a comprehensive list of ways to describe 75 different emotions. The Emotion Thesaurus covers everything from the use of body language to a character’s internal thoughts to a character’s impulsive responses. It’s a great resource that adheres to the ever-prevalent “show, don’t tell” philosophy of writing.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($14.99 at the time of publication)

This Writer Emergency Pack is brought to you by John August, the screenwriter behind such titles as Go, Big Fish, and Frankenweenie. The pack comes with 26 illustrated cards meant to help you “resuscitate” your story. The cards are designed to aid you in such writerly tasks as closing plot holes, spicing up cookie-cutter characters, and considering your themes. The cards appeal specifically to writers of fiction with a focus on character and conflict. They’re an amazing resource for curing writer’s block and helping you see your story in a different way.

August hosts a podcast called Scriptnotes, along with fellow screenwriter Craig Mazin. It’s a great podcast, even for non-screenwriters, that covers all the same story elements the Writer’s Emergency Pack is designed to address.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($10.89 at the time of publication)

Adult coloring books have become very popular, and it’s easy to see why. They’re a great way to have fun on your own and reduce stress. For writers, they can be a great way to take a break from all the words and just enjoy yourself with a more zenful (coining it) activity. There are tons of different adult coloring books featuring tons of different themes ranging from farting animals to cat butts. This particular adult coloring book focuses on people of Walmart, so it includes quite a few human butts (or buttcracks, at least). I cracked up when I saw the title, so I had to include it. If you’re a people watcher, this is definitely the book for you. And who knows, within the People of Walmart Coloring Book, you may just find some unlooked-for inspiration.

Keeping a lid on your stress level is crucial to the practice of writing. There are a ton of tools out there designed specifically to put your mind at ease, from stress balls to coloring books, you name it. The Zen Garden is a great example of one such stress-relieving tool. I really like the idea of the Zen Garden because it allows you to do something with your hands while your mind continues to mull over whatever story problem you’re working out. It’s almost like it tricks your brain into thinking your body is doing something, leaving your mind free to wander. If you have a brain that works like that, the Zen Garden is a perfect tool.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($14.95 at the time of publication)

Lots of people like to read in bed, but there’s that pesky problem of blue light that tends to get in the way of our sleeping patterns. If you don’t know, blue light is the type of light that tells your brain it’s daytime. So, if you expose yourself to it too close to bedtime, it’ll trick your brain into thinking it’s day, and you’ll have a tougher time getting to sleep. This blue-light-blocking book light is designed with amber glass that filters out 99.94% of blue light, allowing you to enjoy your bedtime story while encouraging the production of melatonin in your brain. All this to say, the blue light-blocking booklight prepares you for a good night’s sleep. And I don’t know about you, but I never sleep better than when I drift off in the middle of a good story.

Buy or Read More on TheStorymatic Here ($23.95 at the time of publication)

Unlike some of the other story and prompt generators on this list, the Storymatic is less like a tool and more like a game. It comes with literally trillions of potential story ideas for developing character, conflict, and plot. Storymatic Studios make several Storymatic boxes, each focusing on a different theme of storytelling. The Rememory box focuses on telling stories through memory. The Synapsis box that mixes the power of storytelling with the spontaneity of improv. They even have a box tailored specifically to kids, so you can find a version for any writer, no matter what stage of development they’re in.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($65 at the time of publication)

We had to get to notebooks at some point, but we didn’t want to just put any old notebook on this list. So, we decided to go with these Smythson Notebooks made by Smythson of Bond Street. The company was established in 1887, so they’ve been perfecting their notebook game for quite some time. Every notebook is handbound and made with their signature Featherweight paper. On their website, you can find notebooks in all colors and sizes. They also have a selection of quaint and witty cover titles like, “Novel Ideas” or “Don’t Believe Everything You Read.”

Perfection does come with a price, and Smythson Notebooks can be pretty expensive. But when you consider the quality of the product and the care that goes into making them, it’s entirely worth it.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($259.98 at the time of publication)

There are certain types of writers who crave simplicity when it comes to their process. Other types of writers desire a more antiquated vibe to help them get into the appropriate headspace. If you fit the bill on either of those, a typewriter might be just what you need. Kind of like how records have become super popular in recent years, there’s been an uptick in typewriter sales as well. And also like modern record players, you can find typewriters that combine elements of modern technology with that nice analog character and feel. This particular typewriter is about as analog as you can get. It’s completely manual, and there are no electric components included, giving you a truly authentic experience of working on a typewriter.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($194.99 at the time of publication)

This ergonomic keyboard is technically designed for gamers, but it’s an amazing tool for anyone who spends a disproportionate amount of time with their hands on the keyboard. The KINESIS Freestyle Keyboard is split down the middle so you can position each of your hands wherever it is most comfortable for you. The keys and switches are 100% mechanical, which is how you get that nice clacking sound. It also has a more tactile feel, relieving you of the sensation of just typing into the void. The bottom of the keyboard extends into padded palm rests for maximum comfort, so give those puppies a break why dontcha?

These are just a few of about a thousand features that make typing on the KINESIS Freestyle Keyboard an absolute delight.

Buy or Read More on Scribe Delivery Here ($29 per month at the time of publication)

Monthly gift boxes are all the rage these days. You can get everything from preplanned, ready-to-make meals to geek-themed boxes. So it follows that there should be a gift box subscription for writers. Scribedelivery is a service that once a month delivers a box of handpicked pens, notebooks, and other stationery right to your door. The materials they provide are also way more unique than anything you can find at the store. Scribedelivery combines all the practicality of purchasing new writing materials with the satisfying surprise of opening a gift.

This Novelist at Work Warning sign is an essential addition to every writer’s working space. I think most people probably have an innate understanding that it’s not a good idea to disturb a writer at work, but this sign will take care of those who are a little slower on the uptake. The sign reads WARNING. NOVELIST AT WORK. BYSTANDERS MAY BE WRITTEN INTO THE STORY. It’s the perfect way to express your need for a little space while bringing some charm to the situation at the same time.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($15.00 at the time of publication)

There are tons of different literary t-shirts to choose from, and Crazy Dog T-shirts has some of the best slogans we’ve seen. This shirt reads, “I’m silently correcting your grammar.” It’s simple and doesn’t mince words, just like a good sentence should. It’s a fun and sarcastic way to advertise your literary prowess, and it doubles as a good icebreaker. Crazy Dog has tons of different designs and slogans for male and female writers alike, so you’re sure to find one that suits you.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($19.95 at the time of publication)

Who doesn’t love fridge poetry? This Magnetic Poetry Kit contains over 300 magnetic word tiles for your phrase-making pleasure. You can leave messages for your roommates, and depending on the tile, you can be as funny, thought-provoking, or as esoteric as you like. Alternatively, you can be like me and just string a bunch of random tiles together and watch what happens. All that said, this is actually a super fun way to get your word-brain engaged in a way that doesn’t demand too much of your time and energy.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($12.56 at the time of publication)

With the advent of e-books, and Kindle books in particular, self-publishing your work is easier than ever. It’s certainly something I’ve looked into, and while it requires you to take on the work of several people (since you have to do your own marketing, etc.) it’s definitely better than never getting published at all. Not to mention that there are numerous self-published authors who have attained amazing success. The Self-Publisher’s Ultimate Resource Guide compiles self-publishing wisdom and advice from dozens of the self-publishing industry’s top professionals. You’ll get the perspective of editors, illustrators, marketers, publicists, and of course, authors. And that’s just to name a few of the professions of the contributors; there are many more. As a resource for getting into self-publishing, the Ultimate Resource Guide is a tough one to beat.

If you’re considering making a living as a freelance writer, or if you’ve already been freelancing for a while but found it to be an uphill battle, you might want to check out The Well-Fed Writer: Financial Self-Sufficiency as a Commercial Freelancer in Six Months or Less. It’s an essential guide that provides comprehensive guidance for writers in marketing, copywriting, blog writing, newsletter writing, and more. Basically, if you can write it, they can tell you how to capitalize on it. The Well-Fed Writer is an essential resource for any freelance writer.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($13.99 at the time of publication)

This Vintage Sealing Wax Stamp Kit is BEYOND nerdy, which is probably why it might be my favorite gift idea on this list. Now you can seal your letters to your grandmother with your very own medieval wax seal. The kit comes in a cool-looking case that resembles an old tome. The case contains three blocks of wax, each a different color, and a stamp for each letter of the alphabet. The Wax Stamp Kit also comes with helpful instruction to guide you through your first wax stamping experience, and make sure you don’t burn down the house in the process.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($29.99 at the time of publication)

This Feather Quill Writing Kit is perfect for writers who want to go REALLY old school. The Feather Quill Writing Kit really is the full package, coming not only with the quill itself, but also with six different nibs, one bottle of ink, one pen holder, and one block of sealing wax. Not only that, but the quill is 100% handcrafted from luxury rosewood and stainless steel. It looks absolutely gorgeous, and I bet it’s a joy to write with, too.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($84.88 at the time of publication)

Considering that the majority of a writer’s life is spent in a chair, I can’t believe I didn’t think of this gift sooner. The all-important desk chair is essential to quality writing. It’s no use trying to concentrate when the pain in your lower back is louder than all your characters’ voices combined. This Ergonomic Desk Chair was designed specifically to address lower back and leg pain while improving your posture. Not only that, but it looks darn comfy to boot.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($112.35 at the time of publication)

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, simplicity is a virtue. This Winsome Wood Writing Desk, perfect for either the home or the studio, is both simple and beautiful. It’s not too big, not too small, and the Beachwood surface with a honey finish is very pleasing to the eye. And even though it’s not huge, it has a convenient shelf for all your knickknacks, plus three drawers for additional storage. I’m a big fan of minimalist design, and the Winsome Wood Writing Desk takes the cake.

Fair warning: some assembly required.

Buy or Read More on My Modern Met Here ($78.00 at the time of publication)

Here is a very literal interpretation of a “book bag.” Brought to you by BAGatelle Studio, these book bags are bags designed to look like literal books. Maybe that description makes them seem a little clunky, but they’re actually very sleek and modern-looking. Not only that, but the designs are absolutely gorgeous. They have book bags emblazoned with covers from such famous works as The Raven, Pride and Prejudice, and To Kill a Mockingbird.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($11.49 at the time of publication)

There isn’t a writing teacher in the world who doesn’t adhere to the gospel of Strunk and White’s The Elements of Style. It’s an insanely simple, yet insanely helpful guide to the most common mistakes made in writing. And yet, simple though it may be, it still makes for some pretty dry reading. This edition of The Elements of Style, on the other hand, includes helpful illustrations to better, well, illustrate the point of each grammatical rule that Strunk and White layout. Definitely file The Elements of Style under your list of essential writer tools.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here (price varies at the time of publication)

I’ve never been on a writer’s retreat myself, but it sounds like a dream. You get to spend a week (or weeks) in a paradisiacal locale doing nothing but perfecting your craft. And your only company besides yourself are other writers. There are a ton of different retreats you can choose from, but the simplest (and most affordable) of them is the Porches Writing Retreat. The Porches Writing Retreat welcomes writers to an old farmhouse built in 1854. The farmhouse is situated along the James River, in the Virginia countryside. Basically, you spend all day writing in any one of the spacious rooms in the house. And when you’re tired or need a break, you can retire to the massive porch with a glass of wine and watch the local wildlife.

Buy or Read More on Etsy Here ($23.00 at the time of publication)

From LocaDesign on Etsy comes a flash wrapped in a sleeve on which is written Hemingway’s famous quote, “Write Drunk, Edit Sober.” It’s perfect for fans of Hemingway himself, or just for writers who subscribe to the similar notion that “The first draft is always shit” (another Hemingway quote). You can honestly find Write Drunk, Edit Sober written on pretty much everything, from infinity scarves to throw pillows, but a flask seems particularly appropriate.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($26.99 at the time of publication)

This is probably the coolest book light I’ve ever seen. From the outside, it looks more or less like a normal book. But open it up, and the glowing “pages” unfurl in your choice of red, blue, green, or yellow light. It’s not so much for reading as it is for aesthetic purposes, but it’s a great pretty aesthetic nonetheless. Better yet, the entire book light is made from all recycled materials, Plus, it’s rechargeable instead of battery-powered, making it not only super cool but also environmentally cool.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($649 at the time of publication)

This reMarkable Paper Tablet is a must-have for any writer who likes to write by hand without the inherent organizational obstacles. The reMarkable Paper Tablet combines the best of the analog and digital worlds. The display is made with e-ink technology, so just the Kindle, the reMarkable Paper Tablet’s screen looks just like the pages of a book. The stylus writes perfectly, and everything you write is backed up to the cloud via the tablet’s WiFi capability. It’s pretty pricey, but if you’ve got the money, this is an absolutely amazing tool for writers of all kinds.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($22.95 at the time of publication)

If you’re like me, you’ve probably never heard of Muk Luks before, which means you’re probably wondering what the heck that even means. But don’t worry, they’re actually one of the greatest inventions on the planet. Basically, Muk Luks are slipper-socks. They combine the best elements of both slippers and socks, fitting snugly over your foot like a sock, but with more padding and insulation, like a slipper. They’re perfect for winter, or for writer’s who have a problem with cold feet.

Buy or Read More on Amazon Here ($99.95 at the time of publication)

I love to listen to music while I write. Heck, sometimes I feel like I can’t focus if I don’t. I used to have a set of speakers on my desk that plugged into my computer. They were great, but they took up way too much space at the cords got in the way of everything. A bluetooth speaker was the perfect solution. There are a ton of great options out there, but I’m particularly fond of the JBL Bluetooth Speaker. The sound quality is great, and the speaker itself isn’t too big, so it doesn’t take up too much room. Not to mention it’s waterproof, so it’s all great for listening to music in the shower.

The Writer’s Digest Literary Calendar has everything a writer needs to jumpstart their creativity. Each day comes with its own theme. Mondays are for motivation, Tuesdays are for prompts (I guess Tuesday wasn’t worthy of alliteration), Wednesdays are for wisdom, Thrusdays are for throwbacks, Fridays are for craft advice, and the weekends feature advice from agents about how to properly write a query letter. It’s an amazing resource that brings just a little nugget of value to your life, every single day. Oh, and it also tells you the month and day of the year.

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100 Best Gifts for Writers: Best Writing Books, Courses, Apparel, and More!

by Joe Bunting | 21 comments

Finding the right gifts for writers in your life can be challenging. After all, what do you get people who spend so much time living in their own heads and imaginations.

It's even worse if  you're the writer ! What do you tell people to get you for Christmas gifts, birthday presents, and other holidays?

But don't worry friends. We've got you covered with over 100 of the best gifts for writers ever. We've got writing software gifts, writing apparel gifts, writing book gifts, and even the best book writing planner money can buy.

Let's get gifting, shall we?

One last thing to note before we begin. A few of the products below are affiliate links, meaning we earn a bit of money for each purchase, which goes to help keep us supplied with our own books and gifts for the writers in our lives. This didn't affect our review or inclusion on our list, but we wanted to let you know!

Gifts for Writers Table of Contents 

Book subscriptions, craft books.

• Non-Craft Books That Are Also Great!
• Inspiring Poetry

Writing Courses

Writing journals and planners.

• Writing Tools and Software

Tech Gifts for Writers

• Writing Stimulants (e.g. Caffeine!)
• Writer's Block Busting Gifts
• Writer’s Clothes and Apparel

Writing Decor

• Other Gifts for Writers

The Best Gifts for Writers: Books!

Writers are always readers, and almost always, the best gift you can get the writer in your life is a great book. 

Some of the best gifts arrive over time! These are our favorite book subscriptions so you can give the gift of regular reading.

Audible Subscription . This is one of my favorites. With an Audible subscription, you can get an annual or even 3-month subscription so your writer can pick out one audiobook a month! Choose your gift threshold at $15 for one month, $45 for 3-months, $90 for six-months, and $150 for a full year.

Book of the Month Subscription . BOTM is the perfect subscription box for book lovers, allowing you to choose one book per month from their shortlist of new and exciting books with $59, $99, and $199 gifting thresholds.

Kindle Unlimited . Unlimited reading in Amazon's Kindle Unlimited program, which has over 4 million books! Not bad! You can give 6 months for $59.94, 12 months for $119.88, and even two years at $172.66.

Parnassus First Edition Book Club : Parnassus Booksstore in Nashville, TN will send a signed first edition each month. Amazing right?! Starts at $35.50 per month with shipping.

Two other independent bookstores with terrific book subscription services: Wild Geese Bookshop (in Indiana) at $35 per month and Shelf Life (in Georgia) at $30 per month.

There are hundreds of great books written on the writing craft, and these can be a great help to writers who want to get better and accomplish their writing goals. Here are some of our favorites:

General Inspiration

• Refuse to Be Done: How to Write and Rewrite a Novel in Three Drafts by Matt Bell. Guides writers through writing a novel, focusing on rewriting and refining.
• Let's Write a Short Story! by Joe Bunting. A practical guide to jumpstarting a career in writing through the craft of short stories.
• 14 Prompts by Joe Bunting. Offers creative and engaging writing prompts to inspire writers.
• You Are a Writer by Jeff Goins. Empowers aspiring writers to embrace their identity as writers.
• Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. Discusses the nature of inspiration and creativity, encouraging readers to embrace curiosity.
• The Art of Memoir by Mary Karr. Shares wisdom on writing memoirs, blending personal experiences with practical advice.
• On Writing: a Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King. A revealing and practical view of the writer's craft, part memoir, part master class.
• The First Five Pages: A Writer's Guide to Staying Out of The Rejection Pile by Noah Lukeman
• The Emotional Craft of Fiction by Donald Maass: Discusses how to write with emotional authenticity and depth.
• Elements of Fiction by Walter Mosley
• Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg. A guide to writing practice and a philosophy of life.
• The Memoir Project by Marion Roach Smith. A guide on how to write a memoir that people will want to read.
• The Modern Library Writer's Workshop: A Guide to the Craft of Fiction by Stephen Koch. A comprehensive guide offering wisdom and practical advice on the art of fiction from a seasoned author and teacher.
• Bird By Bird by Anne Lamott. Lamott's book offers her own insights into the writing process, blending humor with practical advice.
• The Write Fast System by J. Danforth. A guide to creating your own writing productivity system, one that will help you write faster, create a sustainable writing habit, and accomplish your writing goals.
• The Way of the Writer: Reflections on the Art and Craft of Storytelling by Charles Johnson. Johnson shares his personal journey and experiences in the world of writing, offering valuable insights into the craft of storytelling.

Story Structure

• The Write Structure by Joe Bunting. My book that shares the story structure framework we use at The Write Practice, a system designed to help people write great stories using timeless structural techniques faster. You can learn more about The Write Structure plot framework here .
• Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee. Much of what the world knows about story structure comes from Robert McKee, a screenwriting and storytelling guru who has been teaching live workshops to writers and screenwriters for decades. This is a foundational text.
• The Story Grid: What Good Editors Know by Shawn Coyne. Shawn Coyne took Robert McKee and other's ideas and created a practical, objective plot framework that has helped thousands of writers and editors craft better stories. This book was transformational to me and so many.
• Save The Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting You'll Ever Need by Blake Snyder. Snyder's influential book presents a structured method for screenwriting, laying out basic plots, fifteen core scenes, and other structural techniques to structure your writing process.
• Save the Cat Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody. Brody translates Blake Snyder's book for novelists, giving a systematic approach to brainstorm, outline, and write a novel using the Save the Cat method.
• The Hero With a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell. This book lays out the origin of the “hero's journey” monomyth that inspired George Lucas and so many others.

Revision and Style

• Revision and Self-Editing by James Scott Bell
• Between You & Me: Confessions of a Comma Queen by Mary Norris
• The Describer’s Dictionary by David Grambs
• The Emotion Thesaurus by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi
• The Chicago Manual of Style: The Essential Guide for Writers, Editors, and Publishers
• The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Languag e edited by William Morris
• Elements of Style by Strunk and White
• Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne and Dave King

Publishing and Beyond

• Before and After the Book Deal by Courtney Maum
• The Business of Being a Writer by Jane Friedman
• Your First 1,000 Copies by Tim Grahl
• APE: How to Publish a Book by Guy Kawaski and Shawn Welch
• Scrivener Superpowers by M.G. Herron

 Non-Craft Books That Are Still Great

• Atomic Habits by James Clear
• You Are a Badass: How To Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero
• The Art of Noticing by Rob Walker

Inspiring Poetry Books

One of the most inspiring kinds of books for writers, though, is poetry. Reading masters of language play with images and emotions takes my breath away. Here are a few of our favorites:

• The Carrying by current U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón 
• Good Bones by Maggie Smith
• The Bell and the Blackbird by David Whyte
• Counting Descent by Clint Smith
• Devotions by Mary Oliver
• Hop on Pop by Dr. Seuss

The Writer's Starter Pack . This one is special because it's from us! In The Writer's Starter pack, you'll get seven of our best writing classes at The Write Practice normally $743, all for $299, more than 60 percent off. This is a limited time deal for Black Friday so make sure to get it quickly if you want it.

Writing Classes from The Write Practice . Alternatively, you give your writer a $49 per month membership to all of our classes and our workshopping community. This is a great deal for writers who want to learn the craft in a supportive environment. 

100 Day Book . You can also give your writer friend the gift of a finished book through our class 100 Day Book. Over the course of 100 Days, they will be guided through the process of writing a new draft of their book. It's an amazing program that has helped thousands of writers finish their books.

Masterclass . Through Masterclass, you can learn from some of the best living writers in the world, like Malcolm Gladwell, Margaret Atwood, James Patterson, Neil Gaiman, and more. See our full Masterclass review or sign up here . 

Skillshare . Skillshare, like Masterclass, offers online classes by award winning and bestselling writers. Check out our top 7 Skillshare classes or sign up for a subscription here .

Moleskine . The writer's notebook of choice over the last 100 years, this hardcover journal is perfect for the writer who wants to keep their words safe. Alternatively, check out Leuchtturm1917 ‘s similarly beautiful journals.

Rifle Paper Co . Another company that makes beautiful, premium journals is Rifle Paper Co. Check out their spiral, bound, and stitched notebooks here .

You can also see our full list of planners for writers here .

Writing Software and Apps

Writing is hard, and having the right tools and software can make the process easier. You can find all of our favorite pieces of book writing software here , but here's a couple of the most giftable.

Dabble . Dabble has quickly become our favorite book writing software, combining some of Scrivener's best features (drag-and-drop chapter editor, notecard view, and manuscript target and productivity tracking) plus write-anywhere cloud syncing all in a more user-friendly, easy-to-use package. You can even gift Dabble Premium to your favorite writer here . 

Scrivener . Scrivener has long been a favorite word processor for writers working on longer projects like books, where traditional tools like Microsoft Word tend to struggle. Learn more about Scrivener here or grab it for your favorite writer here for $59.99 .

ProWritingAid . Our favorite grammar and style checker! Give the gift of perfect writing (or at least writing with fewer errors!) You can subscribe normally, or gift Lifetime access or a 1 Year Subscription $60 here .

Publisher's Marketplace . The best tool to help you get published. Find literary agents and publishers to submit to, get a stream of the latest deals in the industry, and hear all the latest publishing industry related news. $25 per year here.

Writers need tech too! From eReading devices to laptops to distraction-free writing devices, these tech gifts will kindle joy in every writer (pun intended, obviously).

Kindle Paperwhite . Read comfortably anywhere (even in low light environments). Download new books instantly wherever you are. Long-battery life (up to 10 weeks!), it's hard to beat the Kindle Paperwhite.

Freewrite Smart Typewriter . This is a distraction-free writing tool designed for writers who want to focus solely on writing without the interruptions of the internet. It features an e-ink screen and a full-size mechanical keyboard, combining the simplicity of a typewriter with modern digital convenience, allowing you to sync your work to the cloud. A very cool (if a little expensive) gift! Check out the Alpha version for a more budget-friendly option.

Digital Voice Recorder . Walking is one of the best ways to tap into your creative flow. What's more, walking and talking out your novel or article can be a great way to get a lot of “writing” done while getting your daily steps. This voice recorder from Sony is a good fit, with good quality, long-battery life, a large amount of storage, and a fairly budget-friendly price. Pair it with the dictating guide for writers, On Being a Dictator by the ultra-prolific Kevin J. Anderson, to give the gift of dictation to the writer in your life.

reMarkable 2 E-ink Note-taking Tablet . Another great distraction-free device for better idea capturing is the reMarkable 2 note-taking tablet. Use it to jot down ideas, map story arcs , handwrite scenes, or just do some world-class doodling. A great companion to the writing process!

Writing Stimulants (AKA Caffeine!)

It's no secret that most writers have a (un)healthy love for caffeinated beverages. Here are some of our favorite coffe and tea-related gifts for writers.

Novel Tea Literary Blends . Tea inspired by your favorite novels? Yes please! DonQuixoTea has to be the best one, right? Get them here.

Fable Grounds . A cool coffee company with literary themed roasts! Pemberly Roast? Ghost of Christmas Past? Book Dragon blend? Outlander coffee? I would like them all, please. Check them all out here.

“Just One More Chapter” Mug . I love this mug for book lovers! Grab it here.

Build Your Own Writer's Block Busting Basket

Combine some or all of these into the perfect gift basket for your favorite writer:

Sticky notes and Index Cards . Who doesn't need index cards and sticky notes to help stay organized?

Bulletin board. Once you have your index cards, you're going to need a corkboard to put them on. Here's one that's large enough to hold them all. 

Timer . Set the timer and get writing! This rotating productivity timer let's you quickly set it for 5, 15, 30, 45, and 60 minute increments. Or just take a look at the clock. Perfect for your writing sprints.

Earplugs . Stay focused with a set of foam earplugs. Or, bonus, go for a pair of AirPods Max noise cancelling headphones . 

Blackwing pencils . Beautiful, iconic, and lovely to write with. 

Green Felt-tip Flair Pens . The perfect pen to mark up your manuscript!

A Cozy Blanket . When you sit in front of a computer or notebook for long periods of time, especially in the early morning or late at night, it's easy to get cold! Thus, a cozy blanket is must. I think this knit fleece from LL Bean , which reminds me of my grandma, is my favorite.

Motivational Stress Balls . For all those hard writing moments!

Your own Zen Garden , but table top sized.

Thinking putty . We all need things to do with our hands while we think. That's why this Thinking Putty is perfect. 

A House Plant . Freshen up the air for thinking with a house plant (tip: the easier to take care of the better). 

Alternatively, have someone make your gift basket for you with The Scribbler Box , the subscription box for creative writers, combining stickers, apparel, craft books, journals, writing tools, and more. Starting at $19.99 a month here.

Writing Clothes and Apparel

What about gifts for the writer who wants to show off? Below you'll find our favorite apparel and funniest gifts for writers.

Socks for Writers

• So Many Books, So Little Time Socks
• Poe-ka Dot Socks . Edgard Allen Poe was a weird dude. A genius, sure, but also very strange. And that's exactly why having a mosaic of his face all over your socks just works. I have a pair of these and I love them. 
• Shh, I’m Reading Socks

T-Shirts for Writers

Who doesn't want a t-shirt that fully captures the essence of their creative journey. Here are some thoughtfully designed options that blend style with literary flair:

• My story structure “works” T-Shirt
• Book Nerd T-Shirt  
• World's Sexiest Writer T-Shirt (shockingly, no one has given me this yet)
• Le Petit Prince Tshirt ($34) . Another great book print from Litographs, except this one you can wear. If you have really amazing eyesight or a spare microscope in your tote bag, you can read almost the whole text of Le Petit Prince on this Tshirt. You can get this one, and other classic book Tshirts, from Litograph's website here .

Literary Hoodie

Shoes for writers.

Shoes are a fun way to give style a little spunk. Try one of these options for a pair of eye-catching footwear for your writing companion.

• High heeled shoes with text
• Writer’s notepad casual shoes

Book Lover Jammies

Sometimes nothing is better than a cozy set of pajamas and a great book. These jammies from CafePress are fun and comfortable—and perfect for curling up with a new favorite read in bed, on the couch, or anywhere your friend enjoys lounging.

• Women’s Book Lover Nightshirt
• Book Lover Pajama Set

The Write Hat

More Apparel

All of that is true, but if you whip out your magnifying glass you can also read the first 20,000 words of Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen. That's right, this is a tote with words. You can get this one and totes for other classic books here from Litographs .

Penguin Classics Postcards ($17) .  We should all be writing more postcards. We really should. But let's be honest, you probably won't. Even so, these awesome postcards of classic books make for great bookmarks. You can also decorate your writing space with them. Or just regift them to your friends. So many great options.  Get your Penguin Classic postcards here . 

You can also get this set with famous quotes in literature .

Matchbooks that Look Like Actual Books ($8) . OK, I don't smoke, and while I do light the occasional fire, I rarely use matches. But I still want these crazy little matchboxes that look like actual books because they're so cool. Someone, please buy these for me .

Next, here's our favorite decor perfect for the writer who likes to set the “write” atmosphere for creativity.

• “Smells Like a Bestseller” Candle
• ”Reading at the Cafe” candle
• Lego Typewriter (I actually do really want this—if only someone would give it to me!)

Other Gifts Every Writer Loves

Spotify Premium Gift Card . Nothing inspires like music. Give your favorite writer Spotify Premium for unlimited, ad-free (i.e. distraction free) music. 

Apple Gift Card . Every writer needs a computer, and for most writers, Apple is the device of choice. You can get your favorite writer an Apple gift card here .

Canva Pro .  Canva Pro gives writers an opportunity to design images without boundaries. Whether or not they’d like to design a professional looking image for a social media account like Instagram, or their very own book cover, Canva is simple to use—and comes with thousands of images and graphics.  Get a friend Canva Pro with this link .

Let us know in what writing-related gifts are on your list?

Think of a character in your work in progress. Then, write out his or her Christmas wishlist. List at least 10 things. Share your practice in the Pro Practice Workshop , and if you post, comment on the wishlists for a few other writers. Not a member? Join us . 

Have fun and happy writing!

Joe Bunting

Joe Bunting is an author and the leader of The Write Practice community. He is also the author of the new book Crowdsourcing Paris , a real life adventure story set in France. It was a #1 New Release on Amazon. Follow him on Instagram (@jhbunting).

Want best-seller coaching? Book Joe here.

21 Comments

Yesterday I heard about a pen that has an inbuilt light … you know, right!!!! No more nocturnal plot brilliance lost down the rabbit hole. I WANT.

Nice! You have the link?

Yes, link would be good! 😉

I ended up getting one on eBay as I’m in Australia. Known as night writer, or aviation pen. There were some in the States through Amazon and eBay also. Happy writing and wakeful jottings.

NiteWriter – Lighted Pen https://www.amazon.com/Maxi-Aids-NiteWriter-Lighted-Pen/dp/B00012K1E2

Pretty cool!

Thanks cat lover!

Well, my WIP is set in the summer, so a Christmas wish list is unlikely. Having said that, my protagonist would likely wish for the following:

1. To find her parents. 2. To be with Tommy again. 3. A place to call home. 4. Not to be hunted anymore. 5. To learn who the man in her dreams is. 6. To learn what the strange words she keeps remembering are. 7. To have her memory restored. 8. To have her sight restored. 9. Driver’s license. 10. Maybe a nice, long nap?

Ha. That’s an intense Christmas list!

It’s an intense story. It’s funny how the creative process works. I never would have thought I was capable of writing a thriller. But I had an idea for one, with (in my opinion) a really cool character. I didn’t want to write it so much as I wanted to read it. And that was the conundrum: if I didn’t write it, it would never be written and I would never read it.

I LOVE that as a motivation, Bruce. Glad you’re sticking with it. 🙂

I aim to be my biggest fan. I want both versions of the novel (I am planning two slightly different versions), the graphic novel, a Blu-ray copy of the movie, tickets to opening night of Akiko the Musical on Broadway….

Granted there is only a small chance of things like a graphic novel, a movie, or a Broadway musical version ever being made. But if I don’t write the book, that small chance drops to 0%.

How’s that for motivation?

That’s the best reason to write there is. I remember looking everywhere for something similar to my story before I really went to work on it. There was nothing & still is nothing even slightly similar to my story. Best of luck to you, Bruce!

Thanks, sherpeace, and best of luck to you, as well. There are similar works to mine, but none has a lead like Akiko.

This Christmas list makes me want to read your book! Your character, and your story by the sound of her Christmas list, sounds extremely interesting!

Your wish is my command, Ashley. Feel free to read, “like,” follow and share. If you left a review, that would be even better!

https://getinkspired.com/en/story/972/akiko/

Hi, @joebunting, this has nothing to do with Christmas but I am struggling with an analytical essay over “The tragedy of Macbeth” and I am writing on how the supernatural plays a role in Macbeth. Could you please give me tips to how I can at least make an A. I have already read your blog on writing which helps me a little. Thanks!

No secrets, but ask yourself, “How can I have more fun with this essay?” More fun equals more engagement, and more engagement equals a better grade. Always.

Here are a few more ideas: thewritepractice.com/writing-an-essay/

I want that notebook, the Edgar Allen Poe socks, and the mugs. Those are awesome!

Me too. Me too.

I was hoping to reblog this on my wordpress blog. That way, I thought I could give hints without it seeming too obvious! 😉 <3 Wishing you all awesome holidays!

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44 Perfect Gifts for Creative People (Fun Ideas + Tips)

Preston Lee

Preston Lee is the founder of Millo where he and his team have been helping freelancers thrive for over a decade. His advice has been featured by Entrepreneur, Inc, Forbes, Adobe, and many more. Learn more »

Under $20 Gifts for Creative People

Books for creative people, over $100 gifts for creative people, quirky and fun gifts for creative people, practical gifts for creative people, technology gifts for artists, fun gifts for artists, books for artists, art supplies gifts , happy shopping.

BIG NEWS! We just released The Freelance Files , a collection of professional done-for-you email scripts, contracts, invoices, and more for smarter freelancing. The first 50 customers, save 50% with this link .

Gifts for creative people seem to have a bit more pressure attached to them, don’t they? Because it’s always those same creative people who seem to have the absolute best gift ideas for the rest of us.

But never fear! Today, we’ll remove the pressure of finding gifts for creative people this holiday season by offering you some of our best gift ideas for creatives .

The list below includes everything from “under $20” gifts for creative people, books to be given as gifts to creatives, super quirky gift ideas for creative people and more.

Use the table of contents below to navigate this giant list of gifts for creative people and find the perfect idea to surprise your creative loved one this year.

Here’s our list of the best gifts for creative people in 2021:

To kick off our list of gifts for creative people, let’s start with the most wallet-friendly options: the “under $20” list of gifts for artistic people on your list.

Finding the perfect gift for creatives doesn’t mean you have to break the bank with original art or expensive technology. Often, creative people tend to appreciate thoughtfulness and creativity when receiving gifts.

If you’d rather spend a bit more on the creative person in your life, you can browse the “high-end” section for more expensive gifts for creative people after you’re done here.

Now to the list of gifts for creative people in your life:

Peel ‘n Stick Chalk Wall

Help the creative person in your life get their office organized or take a doodle break with these self-adhesive 9×12-inch chalkboard sheets. They come in two colors: slate gray or schoolhouse green.

Waterproof notebook for the shower

The creative people in your life most likely get some of their best ideas while taking a shower. Give them the gift of never losing an idea again with this waterproof notebook .

Sticker Pack for their laptop or water bottle

Creative people like gifts that help them express themselves. And who doesn’t like to upgrade that boring stainless steel water bottle with some fun colorful stickers? I’m telling you, if you need simple and affordable gifts for artsy people, stickers are a total win!  Shop stickers packs on Amazon

Retro pin art gadget for their desk

I have never met a creative person in my life who didn’t sit down and play with one of these pin art sculpture toys with a big smile on their face. This is one of those simple gifts for creative people that are a guaranteed winner every time.

Guide to actually being creative

You’ll see there are lots of books on this list of gifts for creative people (keep scrolling) but this one stands out as more than a book. It’s an interactive, hands-on guide to being creative. And it’s brilliant. Take a look.

Sharpies. Seriously, any kind of sharpies.

There’s something about Sharpies that make one of the best gifts for creative people. With all their different colors, sizes and styles, Sharpies are one of the most basic yet versatile creativity tools anywhere. And while it’s one of the most simple gifts for artistic people you can buy, it’s an almost guaranteed good holiday when your creative and artsy loved one opens this present!

Start with a basic set of sharpies like this one . Or if you think Sharpies would be a really big hit with the creative person in your life and feel like spending more than $20, try this Ultimate Sharpie Pack instead .

Dot Grid Notebooks

As a creative person, there’s almost no better gift than a simple blank notebook. I personally like the dot-grid sheets which allow you to go back-and-forth from writing to drawing to mocking up ideas. Here’s a great one at a good price:

Of course, one of the best gifts for creative people can be a motivating, inspiring, or exciting book. Below, we’ve compiled a few books that will work perfectly as gifts for creative people who like to read, learn and excel.

Elizabeth Gilbert’s books have been inspiring people for years. In Big Magic , she shares her unique understanding of creativity, shattering the perceptions of mystery and suffering that surround the process. A truly inspirational read for creative people.

Creativity Inc.

Creativity, Inc. is an insiders look at one of the most creative companies in the world, Pixar. It dives into the processes and beliefs used by this world-changing entertainment company. While it does focus a bit more on business and creativity it’s still one of the best gifts for creatives who are serious about learning from the best.

365 Days of Creativity

This fun and interactive book makes a great gift for any artistic or creative person in your life. With eye-opening new activities every day to spark imagination and exploration, this gift will keep giving all year long.

You might also want to try 365 Days of Art and 365 Days of Drawing too, depending on the creative person you’re finding a gift for. Either way, any of the books in this series make great gifts for artists.

Creative Calling

This book from the founder of Creative Live will open the reader’s eyes to how important creativity is in our daily fulfillment at work, at home, and everywhere else. If you need gifts for artistic people who want to change the world with their creativity, this book is a great choice!

This book is a fascinating methodical look into what it takes to actually be original in the world. It examines huge successes and failures in art, technology, and innovation in order to answer the question: how can we all be more original and creative? It also happens to be one of my favorite books on creativity.

The War of Art

This somewhat timeless book on creativity is a probing look at the very real barriers creative people face as they strive to do their best work and make their best art. A must-read for anyone hoping to pursue a life of creativity.

Steal Like an Artist

Almost more of a workbook than a sit-down-and-read kind of book, Steal Like an Artist is a simple guide to “10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative” making it a no-brainer on the list of gifts for artistic people.

Creative Confidence

Written by two of the smartest thinkers in the realm of creativity, Creative Confidence helps us see that each and every one of us is creative.

Sometimes finding the exact perfect gifts for creative people means spending a bit more money. If you’ve got a creative person in your life who you’re ready to completely spoil this holiday, look no further than the following gift ideas:

There’s not a creative person on the planet that wouldn’t love a new 2021 iPad Pro this holiday season. It’s the ultimate creativity machine and just begs to be used for drawing, painting, sketching, photo-editing, designing, writing, and all sorts of other creative endeavors.

Throw in an Apple Pencil too and you’ll seriously be that creative person’s favorite gift-giver for at least a full year.

Wacom Tablet

While tablets like the iPad are quickly taking over the creative technology market, there’s still a large, devoted, and enthusiastic crowd of creatives who love to work with Wacom tablets .

Wacom allows creatives to quickly and professionally edit photos and create digital artwork using natural pen control using one of their tablets. For a nice entry-level tablet that won’t get outgrown quickly, try the new Wacom Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet . It’s a sure win.

While it may not be the most sexy idea on this list of gifts for creative people, a new Printer could be just what your loved one wants this holiday. There are plenty of great printers for graphic design , but we recommend the HP OfficeJet pictured below.

If that’s not the right fit, you can also browse endless printers on Amazon to find the perfect one.

Headphones to tune out the noise

Ask just about any creative person and they’ll tell you tuning out the noise around them can often lead to some real progress in their creative work. This holiday, maybe you ought to get them a nice pair of headphones to do just that.

Browse all of Amazon’s best headphone recommendations or go with our absolute favorite noise-canc eling headphones from Bose pictured below.

Chances are, the creative people you shop for are probably the most fun and quirky people in your life. Which is why having a section of quirky and fun gifts for creative people seemed like a must-have in this article.

There’s a fine line between cheesy gifts and creative gifts, though. We’ve tried to walk that line carefully so you don’t embarrass the creative people in your life with stale gift ideas.

The most creative toy on the market (still)… Lego

Lego has withstood the test of time for both children and adults as one of the most creative toys in existence. Try a basic set like this one or shop Lego on Amazon for all the most intense sets possible. Whether you need gifts for creatives or gifts for artsy people, you almost can’t go wrong with a Lego set.

Computer decals (okay, it’s more stickers)

We know we already listed stickers as a gift for creatives in our “under $20” section, but we can’t help but include computer decals on the list here. There are thousands of creative decals that turn a boring computer into a creative person’s dream!

Here are two we really liked (pictured below):

• World Traveler Laptop Decal –  https://amzn.to/2orQ20v
• Juicebox Laptop Decal – https://amzn.to/32aFgKE

Creative T-shirts

Ask any creative person and they’ll tell you they can’t have enough creative t-shirts. Why do t-shirts make such great gifts for creative people? Maybe because there are more t-shirt designs in the world than there are human beings (at least it feels like it) so it’s easy to express yourself with the perfect one.

Just because creative people tend to be a bit more eccentric and original, doesn’t mean gifts for creative people can’t be a bit more down-to-earth and practical.

Below are gift ideas for creatives who like to keep things colorful while still getting down to business with their creativity.

Four 2-inch tall cubes to tell you the time

This cube shaped alarm clock can be a great addition to your creative workspace. Each cube displays one glowing LED digit to make up the time display. Unlike static boxes usually associated with alarm clocks, this interactive collection of changing numbers can be arranged in any configuration.

Gradient Puzzle | 500 piece

This Gradient Puzzle is a vibrant way to meditate on color and give your creativity a boost. The act of putting it together is slow and deliberate, where the color of each piece is used to locate its proper position. The material uses a thick stock and high-quality art paper, so the puzzle can be assembled again and again without losing its edge.

Boogie board for sketching ideas or making art

Not every idea deserves a page in your creative notebook. In fact, sometimes you just have to sketch something out, write down a reminder, or do some quick math (yes, creative people do math too).

For that, we recommend this super-cool, click-to-erase Boogie Board . It’ll also save on paper waste, making it one of our favorite gifts for artistic people who just can’t stop doodling.

Speakers for getting in the creative zone

There’s almost nothing better than tuning out the world around you and getting in the zone as a creative. Whether your loved one draws, writes, designs, paints, crafts, or does it all, some nice speakers are one of the best gifts for creative people, hands down. For an obvious win, try the Creative Pebble Minimalistic Desktop Speakers .

Timeular time tracker

If you’re searching for gifts for creative people who also make a living being creative, you may want to consider this super-cool time-tracker for creatives . It’s a six-sided dice that can be customized to track daily creative tasks. It syncs with your computer and phone to make time tracking easy and quite fun.

Foot rest and massager for long stints at a desk

If the creative person in your life spends a lot of time at their desk, you may want to consider treating their feet to a bit of respite. This foot-rest gives your feet and legs a much-needed rest while also adding a bit of circulation help and slight massage.

High quality overhead/computer lamp

Every creative person has been there: the “how did it get so late!?” moment when they’re in the creativity zone, making something awesome. And what does a creative person need in that moment? A powerful lamp. We recommend this self-dimming desk lamp from Benq .

If your creative person is on the road more with a laptop, perhaps the Benq screenbar lite is a better choice.

Pantone book

If you’re looking for gifts for creative people who work in print design, graphic design, or commercial art, look no further than the coveted Pantone Book . It’s got a bit of a back-story that we won’t bore you with right now, but trust us: this is something your designer friend/family member will want.

Reusable dot grid notebook

We didn’t want to double up (we already listed dotted notebooks in another section), but we couldn’t help but list this super-helpful reusable dotted notebook . It allows you to write/sketch anything you want, scan it into their app (which stores your writing/drawing safely in the cloud) and then erase the page and use it again later. It’s a dream of a gift for someone artsy or creative in your life.

Wacom Bamboo Digital Notebook

Wacom tablets are the perfect blend of something you can touch with your hands and still turn high-tech. The Bamboo Digital Notebook lives up to the Wacom brand in every way.

Artists will love that they can use real paper to draft their ideas in the way they love best: visually. The cool thing is, once they’ve drawn out what’s in their head, they push a button and pow—their pictures and hand written notes are saved to a digital format.

If you know the kind of artist who is always bursting with ideas, but looking for ways to save on paper and collaborate with others in a digital space, this is the perfect gift for them.

Printing 3D Pen

3D printing has been in vogue for a few years. As home printers get less expensive, more and more artists are embracing the technology to make everything from jewelry to toys.

3D pens are a great way to dive into 3D plastic modeling without a full-blown printer, or do touch-ups on 3D printed creations. They are fun to play with and can help get ideas flowing for any kind of artist.

One of the reasons a 3D pen makes great gifts for artists is they are so simple to use. Some models are even safe for older kids who are into art. They are also new enough that the odds are your favorite artist doesn’t already own one.

LED Light Pad by Craftymint

Light boxes might conjure up images of huge, bulky, expensive tables that aren’t really necessary. However, technology has come a long way since then.

The LED Light Pad by Craftymint is perfect for copying sketches and making changes as needed. It’s portable, affordable, and the light intensity is easily adjustable. Comic artists, animators, sketch artists, or really any kind of artist will find a light box invaluable.

Throw in some high-quality paper in different weights, and you’ve got yourself the perfect gift for artists!

Butouch Professional Digital Painting Brush Stylus

Do you know an artist who is always drawing on a tablet, or even on their smartphone? A brush stylus is an incredible tool that adds an authentic texture to digital artwork.

Some gifts for artists may seem a little gimmicky, but a good quality brush can really bring digital art to life. With features like variation in line thickness and an ergonomic design, this stylus brush can make the difference between a clunky drawing and a textured, realistic work of art.

Professional artists and hobbyists will both love the chance to draw with a fancy new stylus brush, and it comes in a bunch of different colors, so you can get them what they love.

Fun Artist Zip Pouch

An artist needs a place to keep all of their pens, brushes, pastels, or whatever tools they use, right? What better place than this fun unicorn-themed pouch?

These pouches have a waterproof coating, so the hilarious image will last. And at 9”x7”, there’s plenty of room for all of that junk stuff lying around the office. So, if you share a home or workspace with them, this perfect gift for artists might actually be a gift for you, too!

Artist at Work, Do Not Disturb Door Hanger

This metallic sign has a great minimalist design, so it’s fun to look at and practical, too.

Artists are often freelancers or contractors, and it can be difficult to separate work life from home life when you’re always home. With more remote workers than ever before, a do not disturb sign might be just the gift your artist needs.

Porcelain Coffee Cup Featuring 65 Artists

We’ve all suffered slumps in our professional lives—and the dreaded creative block is a very real, and frustrating, feeling. Perhaps staring at some of the great modern masters will help your favorite artist get inspired.

If that doesn’t work, at least they can fill it to the brim with caffeine to jumpstart their brain. It’s always good to have a plan B.

Bob Ross Bobblehead

For the creative soul who has everything else. I mean really, who couldn’t use a little more Bob Ross in their lives? This delightful bobblehead even talks, sharing some of Bob’s most famous inspirational phrases.

This Bob Ross figure would make one of the greatest gifts for artists at a white elephant party, office gift swap, or as a special keepsake for a loved one. Because if this doesn’t bring a smile to their face, nothing will.

Sketch-A-Day Challenge

Whether they’re just getting started or have been drawing for years, every artist could use a little help in the idea-generating department. This 30 Day to Draw Challenge book contains 365 different drawing prompts to help get those creative juices flowing.

It might be fun to gift one of these books to an artist and keep one for yourself, then challenge each other to work on different styles and techniques. This would also be a great present for someone who has taken time off from their art and needs a little nudge to rediscover their love for it.

You Are an Artist: Assignments to Spark Creation

The title of this book by Sarah Urist Green says it all: You Are an Artist. Presenting your favorite creative soul with this book can help affirm to them that you believe in their work and their choices.

The book is full of thoughtful prompts that go beyond a quick phrase. Each assignment highlights a real artist’s unique technique and gives ideas for how to practice and implement that approach into real art projects. If you’re stuck on gifts for artists, this book certainly makes a special one.

If your creative friend wants to turn their passion into a business, perhaps reviewing this list of books on freelancing will help.

Derwent Sketching Wallet

So many artists are inspired by the world around them. When something catches their eye, wouldn’t it be great if they had high-quality supplies at their fingertips?

This sketching wallet fits into a bag and is loaded with five different kinds of pencils, a sharpener, an eraser, and an A5 sketching pad. It’s not too big, and not too small, so everything a creator needs to sketch on a whim is right where they need it.

Watercolor Brush Pens by Genuine Craft

When you absolutely don’t know what kind of gifts for artists to get, give them something new to experiment with.

Watercolor brush pens can be used to blend colors in an interesting way. They are sometimes used to achieve a similar look to watercolor paints, but in a form that is easier to take along places and has less prep work and cleanup.

In short, these vibrant pens are a relatively inexpensive way to play around with a different kind of medium. What kind of artist wouldn’t love that?

Artist Canvas Apron with Pockets

Artists aren’t known for their organizational skills. With this apron, they can have all of their tools accessible and look legit at the same time.

This heavy-weight apron has ten pockets—enough to hold all of those brushes, tubes, pencils and rulers. One of the coolest features about this particular apron is that it wraps fully around the back, so if your artist is particularly messy, this will save their favorite outfit from total ruin.

As you consider what to get the creative in your life, there are a few tricks that can help you narrow down the list. Sometimes talking to their friends, siblings or parents can help you get further insights into which gift to get.

And you can always try putting yourself in their shoes – what projects do they spend their time on? What would make their life easier? The best gifts for artists and creative people might be the ones they didn’t even know they needed.

In the end, no matter what you choose, what is most important is that the gift is something that comes from your heart.

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Written by Preston Lee

Editor at millo.co.

Preston Lee is the founder of Millo where he and his team have been helping freelancers thrive for over a decade. His advice has been featured by Entrepreneur , Inc , Forbes , Adobe, and many more.

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Comments from the community

Nice! That’s an awesome idea. 🙂

Great stuff! And the Moleskine notebooks are definitely a great go-to gift, I go through them so fast and even custom illustrate them for my Etsy shop.

Awesome! Do you have a link to your Etsy shop, I’d love to see that 🙂

16 unexpected gifts for writers, from creative prompts to an encouraging mug

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

• Writers are some of the most creative people, so finding a unique gift can be tough.
• We put together 16 gifts for writers that are clever and motivating, from journals to fun mugs.
• Still looking for a gift? Check out our list of the All-Time Best products we've ever tested .

It's nearly impossible to get through the day without writing. From professional authors to grocery list creators, we all rely on writing to bring the thoughts inside our heads into action. 

If there's a writer in your life, they'd almost certainly appreciate a gift that lets them fuel their favorite hobby. No matter their process or interest, these gifts for writers are sure to please even the pickiest wordsmiths. 

16 unique gifts for writers that will spark their creativity

A stack of creativity cards when they're stuck.

Writer Emergency Pack, $15.99, available at Amazon

Underdeveloped characters? Painful plot points? Just plain writer's block? Whatever their sticking point is, these creativity cards can help them push past it. 

A candle that evokes the smell of books

Book Club Homesick Candle, from $34, available at Amazon and Homesick

A writer's environment has the power to completely shape what they're creating. Help them get into their best headspace with scents reminiscent of the smell of old books. 

A memoir by one of the all-best best writers

"On Writing" by Stephen King, from $12.99, available at Amazon and Bookshop

Give them a sneak peek into legendary horror author Stephen King's writing process in this memoir-lecture hybrid of a story. If they're a fan of Stephen King's work, you can pair this with one of his bestselling books .

Non-prescription glasses that help with eye strain

Bluelight Glasses (no prescription), from $9.95, available at Zenni

Staring at the computer all day isn't the best for their eyes or their brain, but blue-light-blocking glasses provide a healthier approach to screen time.

A subtle nod to their greatest passion

Typewriter Key Necklace, $70, available at Uncommon Goods

This subtle and sweet necklace will provide them with a more understated way to show their love for writing. Even for non-writers, this personalized initial necklace is a great and simple option to elevate nearly any look. 

A monthly book subscription

Book of the Month Membership, from $49.99, available at Book of the Month

The best writers are often the best readers, and if their reading list is ever-growing, they'll appreciate you effectively gifting them a library at their doorstep. Book of the Month takes much of the decision fatigue out of book shopping, giving them a small but diverse selection of books to select from each month. You can read more about the subscription service here.

A paper-saving way to organize

U Brands Magnetic Dry Erase Calendar Board, $9.96, available at Walmart

Juggling multiple projects can be difficult without staying organized. This whiteboard is divided up into a monthly calendar and blank notes section, so they can keep track of upcoming tasks while keeping a zoomed-out look of what's on the horizon. I've owned a version of this whiteboard for over a year and it's definitely helped with organization and time management. 

A comfy seat wherever they go

Seat Cushion, $35, available at Purple

This portable seat cushion will help them find a comfortable place to write wherever they go. Gone are the days of stiff coffee shop stools and worn-in library seats. 

A journal filled with creative prompts

Piccadilly 300 Writing Prompts Journal, $7.32, available at Walmart

Journaling is an excellent way to make sense of overwhelming thoughts — and journals specifically designed with writing prompts can serve the same purpose for authors. This one has 300 prompts that focus more on fostering creativity than specific writing skills. 

A mug that always reminds them of their mission

Future Bestselling Author Mug, $14.99, available at Etsy

Set the tone for their day of writing by reminding them of their purpose before they finish their morning coffee. Plus, you can personalize it by adding their name on the back for no extra charge.

A fun story creation game

The Storymatic Classic, $29.95, available at Amazon  

Help them to create a story from scratch with this set of over 500 cards that will practically do the work for them. Great for non-writers and writers alike, this is also a great gift for game night or the next dinner party. 

A planner focused self-care

Kick Today in the Butt Planner, $25 available at Dash of Pep

This planner can keep them on track with an extra dose of compassion. It's dateless for customization, helps organize tasks by priority, and has built-in prompts specifically with self-care in mind.

A gift card to their favorite music streaming service

Send them a gift card to Spotify , Apple Music , or Amazon Music Unlimited  

Everyone focuses differently: Some need to dive deep into their favorite podcast, others just need any kind of background music, and some need a welcome distraction after writing in silence. Whatever their taste, they're likely to appreciate a gift from their favorite music streaming service. 

A set of funny writing pencils

Writing Pencil Gift Set, from $9.69 available at Etsy

For writers that prefer a notebook and pencil to a computer, these pencils come with humorous and inspiring phrases that will keep them going. You can purchase this in a bundle with a notebook or as the pencils alone.

A library of their own

Knock Knock Personal Library Kit, $21.58 available at Amazon

Writers are readers — and whether they're sharing drafts of their own work or lending out their favorite book, this library kit is a cute, custom way for them to keep track of all of their shared stories. Much like a real library, it includes adhesive book pockets, checkout cards, a date stamp, and a pencil. 

A humorous wink to writer's block

Writer's Block, $22.50, available at Etsy

This wooden writer's block brings an element of silliness to a typically frustrating process. Writer's block can be challenging to break through, but at the very least, they'll be able to think of you each time they get stuck. 

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Gifts for Writers: 101 Top Picks and Creative Ideas

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on September 9, 2023

Categories Writing , Inspiration

Finding the perfect gift for the writers in your life can be a daunting task, as their creative nature may demand something unique and thoughtful. From aspiring novelists to seasoned journalists, every writer appreciates gifts that spark their creativity, streamline their writing process, or simply make their day-to-day lives a bit more comfortable.

In this article, we’ll explore a range of gift ideas that cater to different preferences and needs, ensuring you’ll find just the right present for any writer you may be shopping for.

Having the right tools and environment can make a significant difference in a writer’s productivity and enjoyment of their craft. Therefore, our recommendations will focus on gifts that help enhance comfort and creativity, as well as those that provide practical support for the writing process itself.

We will also consider some unique and personalized gifts that truly stand out, plus gift card ideas that give your favorite writer the freedom to explore and discover new sources of inspiration.

Key Takeaways

• Choose gifts that enhance comfort and spark creativity for your favorite writer
• Consider practical tools and items that support the writing process
• Explore unique and personalized gift ideas, plus gift cards for added flexibility

101 Gift Ideas for Writers

Before we dive into detailed ideas for writer gifts, here’s a mega list of 101 ideas to inspire you:

• Leather journal or notebook
• Elegant paperweight
• Writing desk accessories like a letter opener or paper clip holder
• Personalized stamps
• Reading pillow
• Book light or reading lamp
• Ereader or tablet
• Audible subscription for audiobooks
• Dictionary or thesaurus
• Magazine subscription
• Classes on writing skills or creative writing
• Conference or workshop registration
• Laptop stand
• External keyboard
• Noise cancelling headphones
• Flash drive
• Power bank charger
• Coffee gift card
• Tea or hot chocolate sampler
• Wine tumbler
• Snack basket
• Subscription box for snacks
• Gift card for takeout food delivery
• Housecleaning service
• Online writing or grammar classes
• Productivity planner
• Desktop organization accessories
• Digital calendar
• Writing software like Scrivener
• Editing software like Grammarly
• Online course on self-publishing
• Books on writing craft, genres, inspiration
• Magazine on writing like The Writer or Poets & Writers
• Book on productivity hacks for writers
• Adult coloring book and pens
• Essential oil diffuser
• Cozy socks or slippers
• Digital voice recorder for dictation
• White noise machine
• Digital picture frame loaded with inspiration
• Encouraging notes or boxed inspiration cards
• Handwritten lyrics or quotes art print
• Custom return address stamp
• Tote bag or backpack
• Water bottle
• Post-it notes
• External monitor
• Label maker
• Tape dispenser and tapes
• Sticky notes cube
• Mini stapler
• Paper clip dispenser
• Binder clips
• Cable management box
• Desk caddy for supplies
• Drawer organizers for supplies
• Printable writing prompts
• Motivational desktop sign
• Gift certificate for editing services
• Online portfolio or website domain and hosting
• Social media consultancy
• Author website design
• Professional author headshots
• Book cover design
• ISBN purchase
• Professional query letter evaluation
• Custom book plates for published book
• Media training for authors
• Register copyrights for manuscript
• Professional bio writing
• Query tracker spreadsheet
• Book marketing consultancy
• Custom bookmarks or bookplates
• Business cards
• Media kit design
• Custom swag with book cover
• Novel outlining software or workbook
• Duplicating services for manuscripts
• Research books related to book topic
• Password keeper
• Encrypted flash drive
• Thank you cards with envelopes
• Tickets to a writers conference
• Registration for a writers retreat
• Scholarly database subscription
• Reference books like dictionaries and style guides
• Custom embosser
• Money to fund their writing sabbatical

Gifts for Comfort and Creativity

Coffee mugs and novel teas.

As a writer, you’ll often find yourself fueling your creativity with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Consider adding some unique coffee mugs to your collection or trying out some novel tea blends to spice up your daily routine. These gifts for writers can make your workspace more enjoyable and inspire your creative process.

• Quirky coffee mugs : Choose mugs featuring famous literary quotes, characters, or vintage book covers to express your writer’s personality.
• Themed tea blends : Look for teas inspired by your favorite books or authors – they make for great conversation starters and can complement your writing sessions with delightful flavors.

Yoga Accessories

Taking care of your body and mind is essential for any writer. Yoga is a perfect way to unwind, stretch, and focus your thoughts. Consider incorporating yoga accessories into your daily routine:

• Yoga mats : If you don’t already have one, invest in a high-quality and comfortable yoga mat.
• Yoga blocks and straps : These tools can help you improve your flexibility and perform more advanced poses, so don’t shy away from adding them to your collection.
• Yoga-inspired books : There are numerous instructional books and guides on yoga aimed at writers, which can teach you poses and techniques to enhance your mental clarity and productivity.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Sometimes you need to eliminate distractions to focus on your writing. Noise-canceling headphones can be a game-changer by helping you create a more peaceful writing environment. They muffle background noise, allowing you to concentrate on your work without being disturbed.

Pick a pair that offers superb audio quality and a comfortable fit for extended wear. You’ll be amazed at the difference these headphones can make in your writing routine.

Gifts for the Writing Process

Quality pens.

A good pen is essential for any writer. It allows you to jot down your thoughts and ideas smoothly and with precision. Invest in a quality pen that suits your writing style and is comfortable to hold for long periods.

Notebooks and Notepads

Writers need a place to record their ideas, outlines, and drafts. Consider giving them a durable notebook or notepad, so they can easily capture their thoughts whenever inspiration strikes. Leuchtturm1917 offers a variety of stylish and high-quality notebooks that many writers love.

Books on Writing

Helping a writer improve their craft is an invaluable gift. Guide them on their journey by offering books on writing. For instance, The Art of Memoir by Mary Karr and The Memoir Project by Marion Roach Smith are excellent choices for writers working on memoirs.

Writing Courses

Another way to help a writer develop their skills is to gift them a writing course. Writers.com offers a wide range of courses taught by experienced authors. This allows your writer friend to learn new techniques, receive personalized feedback, and make valuable connections in the writing community.

Do you know someone who gets their best ideas in the shower? Equip them with Aqua Notes , a waterproof notepad that allows them to record their thoughts while they’re in the shower. With Aqua Notes, no brilliant idea will ever go down the drain.

Unique Gifts for Writers

Adult coloring books.

Adult coloring books can be a great stress-reliever and source of inspiration for writers. With intricate designs and patterns, they encourage creative thinking while providing relaxation. Coloring books come in various themes, so you can easily find one that appeals to the writer in your life.

Magnetic Poetry

Magnetic poetry sets are a fun, inventive gift for writers. These sets consist of magnetic words and phrases that can be arranged and rearranged on any magnetic surface. They offer a unique way for writers to brainstorm ideas, create original stories or poems, and experiment with language. Whether it’s for a laugh or a focused exercise, magnetic poetry is an entertaining tool that can spark creativity.

Tequila Mockingbird Book

Tequila Mockingbird is a delightful cocktail recipe book with a literary twist. Featuring a mix of classic literature-themed cocktails, such as “Romeo and Julep” and “A Midsummer Night’s Beam,” this book is perfect for writers who appreciate a clever pun and a tasty beverage. Combined with other classic novels, it can make for a unique gift set that any writer will appreciate.

Custom T-Shirts

A custom t-shirt is a versatile gift that allows you to showcase a writer’s personality and interests. With numerous design options available, you can create a shirt that features a witty quote, an iconic author, or a beloved literary character. Personalized t-shirts are both fashionable and functional, making them a thoughtful gift for writers who want to celebrate their love for the written word.

Gift Cards for Writers

As a gift option for the writer in your life, gift cards can provide them with the opportunity to choose the perfect item that suits their unique needs. In this section, we will explore three types of gift cards that are sure to please any writer: Etsy gift cards, writing retreat gift cards, and subscription gift cards.

Etsy Gift Cards

Etsy is a treasure trove of unique and creative items made by passionate artisans. Giving an Etsy gift card to your favorite writer allows them to explore a wide variety of writing tools, personalized stationery, and inspirational artwork. This flexibility ensures the perfect gift selection, tailored to the individual’s taste and style.

Writing Retreat Gift Cards

A writing retreat can be a game-changer for an aspiring author, providing a focused and serene environment in which they can fully immerse themselves in their craft. Many writing retreats offer gift card options, enabling you to provide your writer with a rejuvenating and inspiring experience. Do some research to find a suitable retreat in a beautiful location and reach out to them about purchasing a gift card for your writer friend.

Subscription Gift Cards

Many subscription services cater to writers, offering curated writing resources, programs, and even workshops. Subscription gift cards to services like Scribbler , MasterClass , or Writer’s Digest can provide ongoing support, valuable resources, and inspiration for your favorite writer. With a subscription gift card, they can enjoy convenient access to these services and continue to hone their skills over time.

In summary, gift cards are a versatile and personalized option for writers, offering them the opportunity to choose the perfect item, experience, or resource that suits their needs and aspirations. With Etsy, writing retreat, or subscription gift cards, you can confidently give a thoughtful and meaningful gift to the writer in your life.

Concluding the Writer’s Gift Guide

As you explore the various gift ideas for writers, remember that the perfect present is one that truly speaks to the recipient’s interests and passions. In this gift guide, we’ve compiled a range of options to suit any writer’s preferences, whether they’re searching for inspiration, organization, or a touch of literary flair.

When you’re shopping for the ideal gift, consider the writer’s creative process and any challenges they might face. For example, some writers might appreciate products that help with writer’s block, while others may be eager to explore new methods for nurturing their focus and mindfulness.

As you sell your chosen writer’s gift, pay attention to presentation and quality. Ensuring your present is beautifully packaged and well-crafted can make all the difference in showing your appreciation for the writer in your life.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide a thoughtful and practical gift that supports the writer’s passion and creative journey. By using the suggestions in this gift guide, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect gift that will make a lasting impression on the writer on your shopping list.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique gifts for authors.

Consider gifting personalized items like customized notebooks , or encourage creativity with a set of exploratory topic cards designed to free the writer within.

Which budget-friendly presents can I give to a writer?

Budget-friendly gifts for writers can include nice pens, stylish bookmarks, or practical items like a planner or organizer. Online writing workshops and affordable e-books can also be well-appreciated.

What are the best gifts for female writers?

Gifts tailored to a female writer’s specific taste, such as personalized journal covers, inspirational quote wall art, or writing-themed jewelry, can be great choices. You can also consider gifts that foster a comfortable and inspiring working environment, like aromatic candles or a cozy blanket.

What luxurious items make great gifts for writers?

High-end writing instruments, a leather-bound writing journal, or a comfortable chair could make for a luxurious gift. Another option is treating them to a writing retreat weekend or enrolling them in premium writing courses.

Which gifts are perfect for friends who enjoy writing?

Finding a gift for friends who enjoy writing is an opportunity to provide them with something that enhances their creative process. Ergonomic mice or laptop stands, personalized writing materials, and writing prompt books can all make thoughtful gifts.

What popular gifts for writers can be found on Amazon?

Popular gifts for writers on Amazon may include best-selling writing books, customizable writing tools, laptop sleeves, or adjustable desk accessories. Additionally, you could explore their wishlist for specific items they might be interested in.

60+ Gifts for Writers: Ideas for EVERY Budget (Even Yours)

by Kevin J. Duncan

on Jan 3, 2024

Finding great gifts for writers doesn't have to be difficult.

Looking for creative writing gifts for the Jane Austen or Stephen King in your life?

Overwhelmed by the myriad of options available on Amazon and Google?

In this easy-to-digest gift guide, I’m going to help you find the perfect gift for your writer friend, spouse, or loved one.

I’ll break everything down into categories, and I’ll even give you different price options for each unique gift idea so you can choose the best gift for your budget.

Sound good? Let’s dive in.

Here are 62 of the best gifts for writers and authors in 2024 (and beyond):

Category #1: An Excuse to Read More Books

Most writers are avid readers.

Book lover? Bookworm? Bibliophile? We writers wear these terms as badges of honor.

That’s why a gift — any gift — related to reading is usually a big hit with writers.

Of course, “any gift related to reading” is broad and incredibly unhelpful.

So let’s look at several specific gift ideas you can try…

A Bookmark to Hold Their Place (Starts at $5)

Does the writer in your life use torn sheets of paper, envelopes, or old Hootie and the Blowfish CDs to mark where they left off when reading?

You know they can do better, so let’s help them do better. Let’s gift them an actual bookmark.

A silicone finger point bookmark 1 can be used as a bookmark or a book strap, and you can stretch them so they point to the exact place you finished reading.

And, at under $10 for a pack of 5, they’re a pretty affordable gift.

Need a bookmark for a young writer, a kid, or a kid at heart? Check out Dr. Seuss’ Oh the Places You’ll Go! bookmark set 2 for around $12.

For readers who like to give off an “I have many leather-bound books and my apartment smells of rich mahogany” vibe, consider this leather bookmark from Hide & Drink 3 for $16.

Want something a bit more creative?

Try postcards.

They can be repurposed in a variety of ways — from framed artwork to, yes, bookmarks. At $20, Amazon’s Bibliophilia: 100 Literary Postcards 4 gift box is almost too good of a deal.

Similarly, you could use illustrated cards. The Writer Emergency Pack for $16 offers helpful suggestions and tips for writers, plus they can be used as handy bookmarks.

Books on Writing (Under $20)

Every book lover has their favorite genre, but when you’re buying a book for a writer, getting something related to the craft of writing is usually a safe bet.

Here are four writing books we routinely recommend to our students:

• On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction 5 by William Zinsser  — The best book on the mechanics of writing.
• Save the Cat 6 by Blake Snyder  — The best book on the structure of writing.
• On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft 7 by Stephen King (aka Jon Morrow’s favorite writer) — Filled with great quotes and a peek inside the bestselling author’s intense writing routine, this well-known Stephen King book is packed with tips for becoming a frighteningly good writer.
• Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within 8 by Natalie Goldberg — If you need inspiration or a gentle kick to snap you out of writer’s block , this is the book for you.

Not sure which writing book to purchase? The tried-and-true gift card 9 is a safe (if boring) option.

And if your writer friend or loved one likes to read at night and needs a handy book light 10 , Amazon has options starting at only $10.

A Kindle Reader (Starts at $60)

If the writer in your life has ever said anything like…

• “There’s just something about the smell of a good book.” Or,
• “I love holding a book in my hand and flipping through the pages.” Or,
• “Tablets are stupid and anyone who reads books on them is stupid.”

…they probably wouldn’t appreciate a Kindle E-reader.

However, if they’ve ever uttered anything like, “How the heck am I going to fit all these books in my suitcase?” they’d probably love a Kindle.

The basic Kindle E-reader 11 starts at $60 on Amazon, with the Kindle Paperwhite 12 starting at $85 and the high-end Kindle Oasis 13 starting at $250.

Does your writer friend already own a Kindle? Consider giving them a cover 14 for it. (Just make sure you buy one that’s compatible with their particular Kindle.)

If the writer in your life has ever said anything about “taking a hot bath” while “reading a good book,” this $30 bathtub caddy 15 is another creative gift idea to consider.

Blue Light Blocking Glasses (Starts at $69)

Anyone who reads books on tablets (or who works on digital devices all day, which let’s face it, is most of us) needs a good pair of blue light blocking glasses.

I don’t pretend to understand the science behind them, but I know from personal experience they reduce eye strain and, in my case anyway, help me to have fewer headaches.

The Swanwick Classic “Day” Swannies 16 ($79) are my daily drivers, and the Classic “Night” Swannies 17 ($69) are great for those who work (or read) at night.

True, there are cheaper blue light glasses 18 out there (some as low as $8). But if your writer friend’s experience is anything like mine, the cheaper options will pinch their nose, hurt their ears, or have them wondering, “Are these actually doing anything?”

In other words, they’ll eventually end up buying a brand like Swanwick anyway, so you might as well save them a step.

Category #2: A Really Good Pen

Yes, it’s cliche. And, yes, most writers already have a dozen cheap pens scattered around their house.

But a good pen? A really, really good pen?

That’s a different story.

It doesn’t matter if it’s for an aspiring writer, an aspiring novelist, a freelance writer , or a bestselling author. Heck, it doesn’t matter if they already own one (or several).

If you give a writer a good pen, it’s a gift that will be treasured.

Here are Some Nice Pens That Won’t Break the Bank

On a tight budget? That doesn’t mean you can’t buy the writer or author in your life a solid pen they’ll love.

Prismacolor Premier Illustration Markers 19 are lightweight, virtually smudge-proof, and cost about the same as a candy bar. They’re not much to look at, but for anyone who values function over form (and a low price), they’re hard to beat.

Don’t want a fine-point pen? Or maybe you’d like an upgrade in the “looks” department?

For around $15, the Parker Jotter 20 is a stainless steel ballpoint pen that’ll turn heads and make people ask, “Is that a Parker Jotter stainless steel pen?”

And if you get it for them, your writer friend or loved one will be able to respond and say, “Yes — yes it is.”

Want to Spend a Little Extra?

The Pelikan Stola III 21 is a handsome ballpoint pen that offers great comfort and balance. It also comes in a fountain pen variety 22 , if that’s your preference.

If you’d like something a bit beefier, the Deluxe Stealth Tornado 23 from Retro 51 is worth a look. It feels substantial in the hand and its all-black, stainless-steel design is timeless.

Money No Object? Buy One of These Pens

Is the writer in your life tech-savvy?

You should look into getting him or her the Symphony Smartpen Digital Pen 24 from Livescribe. It works on iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS.

Does he or she prefer to write notes on paper?

The Aurora Ipsilon 25 is a classic fountain pen that fits great in the hand and offers smooth, consistent ink flow. You know, if such things matter to your writer friend (and they should).

Finally, consider the Cross Townsend 26 pen — it’s plated in 10 karat gold.

I’ve included it on the list because it’s plated in 10 karat gold .

Category #3: Noise-Canceling Headphones

Sometimes, the most thoughtful gift you can give a writer is the gift of silence .

No, that doesn’t mean giving them the cold shoulder — it means giving them what I consider to be one of the very best gifts for writers:

Noise-canceling headphones that block out the world’s distractions so you can get down to business and write .

Of course, noise-canceling headphones aren’t cheap. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t good deals to be found.

Let’s look at a few…

Active Noise Cancellation for Under $50

The Anker SoundCore Life Q20 27 is an over-ear headphone that offers decent sound, great comfort, and active noise cancellation (ANC) for $60 — and Amazon regularly offers a $10 discount to bring the price down to a cool $50.

With over 27,000 reviews and a 4.5 out of 5 rating on Amazon, it’s little wonder why the New York Times’ Wirecutter lists the Anker Q20 as its budget pick for noise-canceling headphones .

But what if the writer in your life prefers earbuds?

Look into the EarFun Air 28 for $50.

It’s IPX7 rated (meaning it’s sweatproof and waterproof), offers USB-C charging, and has a battery that lasts 35 hours when fully charged.

Plus, the brand is called “EarFun” — how could it NOT be a good time for your ears?

Bigger Budget? Consider One the These

At around $130 on Amazon, the Anker Soundcore Life Q35 29 takes everything great about the Life Q20 and turns them up several notches.

Plus, its active noise cancellation can switch between different modes based on your location. That’s not a big deal if you only wear them in your writing space inside your home, but if you mix things up and sometimes go to coffee shops that play Justin Bieber music, it’s a feature you’ll appreciate when those distracting, horrible noises are blocked.

If your writer friend is more of an earbud guy or girl, Anker’s Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro 30 is a great gift option.

It offers many of the features you see with Apple’s AirPods Pro (more on it below), but at a much lower price.

Just think of all the pens you could buy with the money saved!

Rolling in Dough? Get Your Writer Friend One of These Headphones

The Sony WH-1000XM4 31 is my noise-canceling headphone of choice; in fact, I’m wearing them right now as I write these words.

They’re probably my most extravagant purchase to date. So much so that, seconds after purchasing them, I had buyer’s remorse.

“Do you have any idea how many pens you could’ve bought with that money?” I asked myself.

But as soon as they arrived and I tried them on, I fell in love. Put simply: They minimize distractions and make my job infinitely easier.

Of course, with a higher budget, you have other options too. For those who prefer Bose to Sony, the Bose 700 32 is a great alternative to the WH-1000XM4 (though a little bit pricier).

And if you’re in the Apple ecosystem, the AirPods Pro 33 and AirPods Max 34 are two standouts.

The former is $200 earbuds with legions of die-hard fans and a host of great features.

The latter is over-ear headphones that cost almost $500. And, no, they aren’t plated in 10 karat gold. However, they are adored by almost everyone who’s purchased them.

(I hear the guy from the Monopoly board game can’t stop raving about his.)

Category #4: Mug for Coffee (or Tea)

If your writer friend or loved one is like most people, they rely on coffee (or tea) to get them through their day.

However, since society doesn’t let us inject it straight into our veins, a middleman — a coffee mug, cup, glass, tankard, stein, or chalice — is required to deliver caffeine goodness to our bodies.

Until the day such middlemen are no longer required, mugs will remain a fixture on every writer’s desk.

And that makes them great gifts for writers.

Clever Writing Mugs (Under $15)

Amazon is packed 35 with humorous mugs for writers.

Two popular ones are “ Please do not annoy the writer, she may put you in a book and kill you ” 36 and “ I write – what’s your superpower? ” 37 , but there are many (many) more.

Want to give off a “do not annoy me” vibe but without the threat of literary death? The “ Be careful or you’ll end up in my novel ” 38 mug is a good choice.

Does the writer or author in your life occasionally succumb to writer’s block? The “ Writer’s block: When your imaginary friends stop talking to you ” 39 coffee mug will keep them company as they stare helplessly at their blank screen or page.

Is your writer friend the type who likes — scratch that, loves — to spot everyone’s spelling and punctuation mistakes? The “ I’m silently correcting your grammar ” 40 mug will fit them like a warm, slightly condescending glove.

One of My Favorite Writing Gifts: The Magic Creativity Mug for Writers

Want to give the writer in your life a mug that’s more special and unique than what’s available on Amazon?

Henneke Duistermaat, who’s both a talented writer and a talented cartoonist, has a collection of mugs designed to inspire and encourage writers and authors, young and old.

This is the one 41 I purchased for myself:

It features Henneke’s alter-ego, Henrietta, moving across vintage typewriter keys on one side, and a hand-written ritual on the other that’s designed to boost your creativity.

If they’re anything like me, the writer in your life will love it.

An Unspillable Mug

If you have a few more dollars to spend, consider getting a mug that’s virtually impossible to accidentally tip over.

Don’t believe such a thing exists?

Check out this video:

The Mighty Mug 42 has “Smartgrip Technology” that prevents accidental spills. It comes in several varieties, but the one I just linked to is stainless steel, double insulated, sweatproof, and BPA-free.

Plus, it fits into any car’s cupholder.

This portability will come in handy when your writer friend needs to leave the house (to buy more coffee).

A Mug With Magical Powers

If you have deep pockets and want to give the writer in your life the gift of not having to get up out of their chair, walk to a microwave, and warm up their cold cup of coffee like a caveman , buy them this:

It’s the Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 43 and it could be yours (well, your friend’s) for only $130.

What’s it do?

It does magic, my friend. Or, more specifically, it keeps your coffee warm for you.

So, not exactly magic, but close.

Category #5: Reliable Keyboard & Mouse

Unless your writer friend, loved one, or spouse does their work on a typewriter (in which case the Royal 79101t Classic Manual Typewriter 44 would be a wonderful gift), a reliable keyboard/mouse is an essential writing tool for every writer’s toolbox.

And if your special writer’s keyboard is currently filled with crumbs that fell from a sandwich consumed during the Obama administration, or their mouse has potato chip stains on it from a flavor they don’t even make anymore , an upgrade would undoubtedly be a welcomed writing gift.

But what to get?

A mechanical keyboard or one that’s low-profile and quiet? What about ergonomics? And do they need to be compatible with Macs, PCs, or both?

Let’s walk through several options (and several price points) so you can choose the right one.

Budget Keyboard & Mouse Options

Need a perfectly practical gift at a perfectly practical price? The Logitech MK345 Wireless Combo 45 is a keyboard/mouse combo that costs only $35.

Logitech is a trusted brand (you’ll see it pop up several times on this list) and this particular keyboard/mouse combo has over 27,000 reviews and a 4.6 out of 5 rating on Amazon. It’s a solid deal.

Need budget options for Mac? Look into the iClever BK10 Bluetooth Keyboard 46 for $30. You’ll have to buy a mouse separately, but the Satechi M1 47 wireless mouse for Macs is a $30 option with solid reviews on Amazon.

Want to give something that’ll be a bit kinder to your writer’s wrists and hands?

The Logitech K350 Wireless Wave 48 is a basic ergonomic keyboard for $37. It can, technically, work with Macs, but it’s designed for PC. If you want a budget ergonomic option for Mac, try the Macally Mac 49 wired keyboard for $50.

On the mouse side of things, Anker’s ergonomic mouse 50 for $28 is an excellent deal. It’s compatible with both PCs and Macs, and its vertical design encourages what’s called a “handshake” position that’s easier on your arm and wrist.

(Hey, remember back before COVID hit when people would actually shake hands? Good times. Good times.)

Bigger Budget, Better Options

If your budget is bigger and you’d like to give your writer friend the best of the best, here’s where you should put your money.

The Logitech MX Keys Keyboard 51 is loved and adored by professionals (including yours truly). It’s quiet, built like a tank, and works with PCs, Macs, and even Chromebooks.

At $100, it certainly isn’t cheap. But it’s really, really good.

For the mouse, check out the Logitech MX Master 3 52 , which is also $100 and works with PCs, Macs, and Chromebooks.

Want ergonomic options?

The Logitech Ergo 53 keyboard offers all of the features found in the MX Keys, but in an ergonomically-friendly form factor.

You can pair it with the Logitech MX Vertical 54 wireless mouse. This is the mouse I use and swear by. Before purchasing it, the soreness in my wrist had gotten pretty severe. But after two weeks using the MX Vertical, the soreness disappeared (and hasn’t returned).

In short, I highly recommend it.

Finally, if you’re in the Apple ecosystem and you don’t want to use one of the Mac-compatible options from Logitech I just mentioned, there are really only two options: the Apple Magic Keyboard 55 for $100 and the Apple Magic Mouse 56 for $80.

Neither is better than the Logitech offerings in my opinion, but if your writer friend needs their Apple, don’t be a Scrooge. Give them their Apple.

Mechanical Keyboard Options

Does the writer in your life prefer the clickety-clack sound and the tactile feel of mechanical keyboards?

Many writers do. In fact, some writers are so devoted to the typing experience provided by mechanical keyboards that the mere idea of using a low-profile keyboard sends shivers down their spines.

Most likely, such writers already own a mechanical keyboard. However, if they could use an upgrade, you have a few options:

The “budget” mechanical keyboard with the most consistently good reviews is the wired Logitech G413 57 for $64.

For $16 more, you can grab the Keychron K2 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard 58 and its top-notch reputation among typing enthusiasts.

The Razer Pro Type 59 for around $110 is another option. Razer is known for gaming, but the Pro Type sees the company finally giving “professionals” some love.

And if you’d like to give the writer or author in your life a mechanical keyboard with all the bells and whistles, look at the Das Keyboard 4 Professional 60 for $169. But be warned: it might spoil them beyond repair.

Oh, by the way:

If your writer friend already has a perfectly good keyboard (that just happens to be incredibly filthy ), you can help them remove those food crumbs by gifting them an air duster.

This cordless air duster from AFMAT 61 is $70, but it’ll help them clean all sorts of things (not just their keyboard).

Don’t want to spend that much (and I don’t really blame you)? Compressed air in a can 62 will set you back only $5 or so.

What do YOU Think are the Best Gifts for Writers and Authors?

There are lots of great gifts for writers out there, and this post has only scratched the surface.

That’s why I’d love to hear from you.

What great writing gift did I miss?

A comfy pair of pajamas or literary t-shirt that says “It’s not the size of the short story that counts”? A tote bag from Etsy filled with a variety of novel tea flavors? How about a literary journal, pencil, or composition notebook?

What are your favorite gifts for writers? What about your favorite gifts for authors? What’s your go-to birthday or Christmas gift for the Ernest Hemingway in your life?

Share them in a comment below!

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18 thoughts on “60+ gifts for writers: ideas for every budget (even yours)”.

So. Many. Pens. “Is that a Parker Jotter stainless steel pen?” LOL Love your writing, man. Keep it coming!

Thanks, James! Yeah, I had a lot of fun with this one. Hopefully, I can take the time to write more often going forward!

The big question here Kevin, is what do YOU want for a gift? Me? As soon as I saw the words “Deluxe Stealth Tornado” I knew I had to have it. A pen that’s like a fighter jet? Sold.

That’s a great question. I’m tough to buy for (which is probably why my family long ago pivoted to the “just give Kevin an Amazon gift card” strategy).

Right now, what I need is a new computer chair. Any recommendations?

Chairs: you need a Häg capisco – sustainable, actively encourages movement, occupies less space than a standard office chair, flexible to use, can use with standing desk, can use on hard floor or carpet – and comes in zillions of great colours – defo what a writer needs – it will change your life.

Thanks for the tip! I’ve never heard of the Häg capisco. I’ll definitely Google it and take a look.

Hey Kevin! I have a Herman Miller Chair which I bought about 17 years ago (cost a fortune here in NZ!) but I adore it! Had to get the compressed air refilled a couple of years ago, otherwise no problems with it. I love that I can learn right back and it really rests my back without the seat also tipping back. Highly recommended, and all recyclable. PS. I loved the article as well! Thank you. I love great pens but hadn’t thought of the noise-cancelling headphones. 😊

Hey Stephanie,

I’d love a Herman Miller chair. If I ever get one, it (and not my Sony headphones) would be my “biggest splurge” purchase. Just not sure if I’ll ever have the nerve to pull the trigger. Kudos to you for getting yours (and getting so many years of use and enjoyment out of it)! I should probably follow your lead… 🙂

Hey Kevin, Smart Blogger courses should definitely be added to your list! Do you offer gift wrapping services? 😉

You’re right, Barbara! Looks like I have an “update this post” task in my future. 🙂

Yay, this post is just in time for the holidays! 🙂

I’ve found that noise-canceling headphones are a MUST for writers or anyone working from home. I started using a pair of headphones recently and they’ve helped so much in keeping me focused. My productivity has skyrocketed.

Great suggestions, Kevin!

Glad you liked the post! Yeah, I worked at home for over a year before I finally wised up and bought my Sony’s. It made such a big difference. I can’t believe I waited so long.

I don’t know if I’ve been living under a rock… I didn’t know about blue light glasses. I think my entire family could enjoy these.

My suggestion is a different kind of book.

As many freelancers know, being brave enough to move steadily forward when they’re not sure what they want, causes many to stumble or give up.

So, I’m reading “Risk Forward Embrace the Unknown and Unlock Your Hidden Genius” by Victoria Labalme.

It has great guidance on how to move forward and succeed, even if you don’t have your precise goal set.

Thanks…

I LOVE my Swanwick blue light blocking glasses. I’d heard about “blue light” and seen recommendations everywhere, so at first I bought a cheap pair. I noticed zero different, so I assumed it was all a scam of sorts. But for some reason (probably because they were having a big sale), I decided to buy a pair of Swannies. Today, I rarely take them off. 🙂

Thanks for the book recommendation! (And good hearing from you, btw.)

Thank you for prompting forward planning. I shall buy a Parker Steel Jotter for myself and Paperblank journals for my friends, they come in sizes ranging from tiny pocket ones to A4 many with magnetic closure and in wonderful designs and colours

Hey Carenza,

You’re welcome! I told my wife yesterday, “You know… I think I’m going to buy a Parker Jotter for myself.” You’d think I would already have a good pen of my own (since I wrote this post), but no. 🙂

I love the ideas. My only problem is having to file your great articles under more than one file category (e.g. gifts for writers, headphones.) Thanks for sharing on the Amazon gift card idea and all the other nuggets.

Hey Patricia,

Thank you! Glad you liked them. 🙂

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20 awesome gifts for kid and teen writers

by Kim Kautzer | Dec 1, 2020 | Gift Guides

What gifts can you choose for kids and teens who love to write? When it comes time to buy a gift for the young writers in your life , you want a perfect present they’ll appreciate for months and years to come.

Because writing is our specialty here at WriteShop, we know exactly what a young—or merely young at heart —writer would love to receive. Some are whimsical; others are serious craft-building tools. Either way, you can trust us on these gift picks.

Writers have a big thing for words! So any present related to writing tools and creativity is right up their alley. When shopping for language-loving kids and teens who love to write, we hope you discover a few perfect gifts from our curated collection below!

1.  Telescoping Pencil Pouch

There are never enough pencil pouches to hold all of a writer’s favorite implements . This telescoping pencil case —which collapses to double as a standing pencil cup—will organize plenty of pens, pencils, erasers, and highlighters with cheerful flair. Made of sturdy canvas, the zippered pouch comes in an assortment of styles and colors so you can pick one your child or teen will love!

2.  Faux Leather Desk Organizer

Available in over a dozen bright and neutral colors , this minimalist faux-leather desk caddy will keep your teen writer a little more organized , with plenty of room for pencils, pens, scissors, and note cards. The drawer version features an extra compartment for stashing small items like paper clips or sticky notes.

3.  Wooden Elephant Pencil & Cellphone Holder

Here’s a fun twist on desktop organizers! This whimsical wooden elephant cradles your teen’s smartphone in its trunk and holds an assortment of favorite writing implements.

4.  Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pen s

This pack of 14 gel pens definitely infuses writing time with JOY! The vivid ink glides across the paper, drying quickly and brightening your young writer’s ideas with vivid color. A variety of colors and smooth flow give writers the control they want while getting their thoughts on paper. Just by switching up pen colors, they can organize different ideas, make corrections, or simply add to the delight of the writing process!

5.  Writing Tools: 55 Essential Strategies for Every Writer

A writer is on a constant quest to perfect his craft. This book is one of the best guides a writer can own . Author Roy Peter Clark shares a series of fifty-five short essays on different aspects of writing , based on his almost thirty years of experience in journalism, writing, and teaching.

6.  The Rural Setting Thesaurus

Writers of fiction will appreciate this guide to describing settings revolving around school, home, and nature . The Rural Setting Thesaurus assists teen writers as they weave conflict and plot twists for these locations into their stories.

7.  Thesaurus of the Senses

Kids and teens who love to write are always looking for that perfect word. The Thesaurus of the Senses expands their ability to see, hear, touch, taste, and smell so they can describe the world around them in vivid detai l . This is the resource they’ll draw from when they need a rich list of sensory synonyms to enliven their writing with creative description.

8.  Smencils Scented Pencils

If the writer you love has to have everything just so before they can sit down with their thoughts, these scented pencils may be just the ticket. The scent lasts for 2 years and includes 5 delicious flavors:  Cola, Jelly Bean, Sour Apple, Cupcake, and Rainbow Sherbet . Yum! Better yet, these #2 graphite pencils are made from recycled newspapers .

Looking for something different? Try these Sports Smencils instead!

9.  Wreck This Journal (in Color!)

Perhaps the coolest and most inspiring journal they’ll ever own, young writers will love this all-new edition of Wreck This Journal —now in stunning full color! The journal becomes completely theirs as they unleash their creativity with prompts for painting, shredding, and transforming its pages.

10. Bedside Writing Caddy

If your favorite teenage authors prefer to compose in the sanctuary of their own bedroom, this bedside writing caddy is perfect for keeping all the tools of the trade within arm’s reach and off the floor. With multiple pockets, it has room for notepads, composition notebooks, a tablet or Chromebook, pens, and more. It also keeps charging cords organized!

11.  Pencil Knee Socks

Nothing symbolizes writing more than the classic yellow pencil! These long pencil knee socks dress up the legs in old-style school charm, complete with pink eraser at the top and No. 2 graphite indicator on the side.

12.  Antique Writing Quill Set

Although this quill writing set is more for fun than for serious writing, it does have an air of sophistication that will appeal to your young writer. Dipping the quill into ink, changing nibs, and using sealing wax will transport your writer back in time and possibly inspire a greater appreciative of modern ballpoint and felt tip pens!

13.  IlluStory Book-Making Kit

How fun is this book-making kit ? It walks children through writing, illustrating and even publishing their very own hardcover book they can cherish for years to come. The only limit is their own imagination!

If they’re more into comics, check out the My Comic Book version instead!

14.  Connections: Letter-Writing Kit for Kids

With themed stationary, stickers and a stamp , this Connections Letter- W riting Kit for Kids is a perfect intro to this lost art. They’ll have so much fun writing to friends and family that they won’t even notice they’re practicing penmanship and improving their communication skills along the way! The best part? The letters your kids create and send will bring smiles to each recipient.

15.  Authors Card Game

In   Authors Card Game , a vintage twist on Go Fish. players compete to collect books from classic authors. Thirteen authors and their literary offerings are the focal point of this race against your opponents. Because there are 52 numbered cards, they can be used for an assortment of other card games as well.

16.  Kids’ Wireless Earbuds

For young authors who appreciate musical inspiration during writing sessions, consider these kids’ wireless earbuds in Batman and kitty styles. There are lots of other styles to choose from, too!

17.  Grammar Rules Pencil Set

Any self-respecting grammar nerd will adore these ombre-look pencils adorned with snarky quips, including:

• LOVE THE OXFORD COMMA
• ‘ALOT’ IS NOT A WORD
• KNOW YOUR ITS FROM YOUR IT’S

18.  Flowing Water Pencil Holder

Get the ideas “flowing” with this funky, one-of-a-kind desk accessory . Available in 5 colors , this bucket appears to be suspended in air as it leaks a flow of clear “water.”

19.  Tall Tales Storytelling Board Game

Get everyone in the family involved playing one of the five variations of this Tall Tales board game . The fifty colorful game pieces are a fun bonus. The non-competitive game promotes creativity and language skills and is super fun for kids and grownups alike. Because it doesn’t require reading, it’s perfect for children as young as four.

Are you homeschooling? If you’re teaching WriteShop Junior Book F to your 5th, 6th, or 7th graders, this would be a great addition to the Book F Tall Tales lesson!

20.  Secrets of Storytelling

In clear, kid-friendly language, this book teaches children how to write a story, from creating characters to developing a plot. Organized in bite-size segments, Secrets of Storytelling helps young writers build their storytelling skills and flex their creative muscles with engaging prompts designed especially for 8- to 12-year-olds.

If you’re looking for more gifts for kids, teens or adults who love to write, follow this link to find 40 clever gifts for readers, writers, and word nerds .

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18 Creative Gifts For Young Writers

I love buying gifts for kids, tweens and teens that help them develop their interests and skills. These 18 Creative Gift Ideas for Young Writers will help your young writer have a comfortable place to work, give them prompts and ideas to inspire their writing, and give them the tools they need to write, write write!

What do you buy a young writer?

I’ve curated some of the best products on Amazon that your aspiring writer will love to receive as a gift. These range in prices, so you can combine them the gift ideas for young writers into a gift basket or just give one or two creative items. 

This post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link I will earn a small commission but it won’t cost you anything)!   Get  more information in  my full disclosure .

Gift Ideas for Young Writers: Somewhere to write

A writer needs somewhere special to practice their craft. If they don’ t have a desk, a lap desk is a great alternative. These come in lots of fun different colors.

While this is advertised as an art desk, if you have a young writer this would be amazing for writing on! We have this desk and my kids love it. It has lasted for years and it is durable and perfect sized. I would say this works great for kids ages 3-6.

This gorgeous desk would be perfect for a tween or teen writer.  Just make sure it fits in your space!

Writing tools for aspiring authors

We also love these Blank Books in our house. My kids love to make their stories into “real books” by using their best handwriting and illustrating in these hardcover books. They are such a treasure for this mom to keep and are relatively inexpensive.

I’m kind of geeking out about this typewriter! I looked for one for my daughter a few Christmases ago and couldn’t find one.  Why a typewriter when there are computers and printers?? I think a typewriter gives a different immediate type of satisfaction that you can’t get from a computer file. This typewriter from American Crafts is adorable and would be so much fun for an aspiring author. My only hesitation with this one is that it doesn’t have the best reviews (although it doesn’t have that many reviews).

This typewriter is quite a bit more expensive but has better reviews.  It isn’t quite as cute as the first typewriter though.

This laptop would be great if you want to invest in technology that will do more than just write. 😉 This is a mid-level that would be great for a tween/teen.

Writing Prompts for Aspiring Authors

A wonderful gift idea for young writers are products give them ideas of what to write about. 

I made some fun free printable writing prompts if you want to include them with your writing gift. Sign up for the Gifty Girl Newsletter and Printables Resource library and get an access code for this printable as well as tons of other fun gift printables!

I also love these story cubes.   Kids can roll the dice and get different prompts for their stories. (These are also really fun to bring on trips, compact and you can just make up stories out loud with the whole family!) T his set of cubes  looks really fun too (could be a stand-alone gift!). It includes Fairy Tales, Scary Stories and the classic Story Time.

642 things to write about has creative prompts that will get kids’ writing wheels going!

Scholastic has a super fun Story Starter machine that gives prompts and lets you actually write stories and print them out in different formats (like a newspaper story). A great link to add to the gift card. Find the writing prompts here . 

There are also writing prompts that you could print off and include in the gift like these Lego Mini-figure writing prompts from HomeGrown Learners.com. They would be perfect for a kid who loves legoes and writing!

And here are Star Wars writing prompts from Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls.

You could also encourage your young writer to write more about themselves.

My book about Me  was a book I had when I was little, and it has questions for kids to answer about themselves. It is so fun to look back at! What was even MORE fun was when I saw my husband had the SAME BOOK he had filled out when he was little. Serendipity!

This All About me Keepsake journal would work great for kids ages 8-12.

Older teens would love a book like this All About Me and the in-between ages might like “ All About me, a Keepsake journal for kids .”

Extra Gift Ideas for Young Writers

This book has helpful ideas and information for aspiring young writers.

If you are giving a writing gift to a teen, these online courses are pricey ($100+) but look amazing. Some options include Teen Scriptwriting, Video Game Writing, Creative Writing and Non-Fiction Writing.

I hope this gift idea fits a lucky kid in your life. Maybe it will inspire the next Shakespeare or J.K. Rowling?

Happy Gifting! Steph

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25 Creative Gift Ideas made with {CHEAP} school supplies ~ The Gifty Girl

Wednesday 16th of August 2017

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The Time Is Now offers three new and original writing prompts each week to help you stay committed to your writing practice throughout the year. We also curate a list of essential books on writing —both the newly published and the classics—that we recommend for guidance and inspiration. Whether you’re struggling with writer’s block, looking for a fresh topic, or just starting to write, our archive of writing prompts has what you need. Need a starter pack? Check out our Writing Prompts for Beginners.

Tuesdays: Poetry prompts Wednesdays: Fiction prompts Thursdays: Creative nonfiction prompts

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Attentiveness

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Nearly fifty years ago, the writer George Perec spent three days sitting behind a café window in Place Saint-Sulpice in Paris recording everything he saw. In his short book, An Attempt at Exhausting a Place in Paris , his observations of mundane occurrences and objects often considered unnoteworthy—passersby, cars, buses, pigeons, signs, and slogans—are documented. This week situate yourself in one spot, perhaps in your home or workplace, or in a public space like a park, busy crossroad, commercial area, library, or café. Then, jot down the objects and behavior you see, and the snippets of conversation you hear. Write a lyric essay composed of these notes, trying to avoid interpretations or analysis. Taken together, how do your observations create a portrayal of a specific time or place? Pay particular attention to how one observation might lead to another, and to potential rhythms and repetitions.

Power Couple

The 2023 thriller film Fair Play , written and directed by Chloe Domont, follows the lives of a young, newly engaged couple, Luke and Emily, who are colleagues working as analysts in the cutthroat world of high finance in New York. The film focuses on the progression of their relationship, which has been kept hidden from their hedge fund office, and the bitter disintegration of their happiness after a promotion that was initially rumored to go to Luke is unexpectedly bestowed upon Emily, which situates him as a subordinate to his wife within a misogynistic workplace. Write a short story that revolves around an occurrence that catalyzes a shift in the power dynamic between two main characters who have a close relationship. What are the initial responses, and does the transformation happen suddenly or gradually? Are there gender, generational, or other cultural issues that play a role?

Organic Insinuations

“All too often, on a ‘poetry scene,’ people prioritise ‘subject matter,’” says John Burnside in a 2023 interview about his writing process by Jesse Nathan published on McSweeney’s Internet Tendency. “I am sure that, as I am working, environmental concerns insinuate their way into the content of a poem organically, as other concerns will—but I would never start from there.” Inspired by the late Scottish poet, who died at the age of sixty-nine on May 29, write a poem that springs not from a predetermined topic or subject matter, but instead allows you to “trust in the sounds, the rhythms that come out of the day-to-day, the sheer immediacy and truth of the quotidian…and the images that lead, sometimes via fairly roundabout paths, to metaphor.” Later, as you reread and revise, what do you discover is the subject of your poem? What might have organically insinuated itself into your poem?

The maintenance or restoration of native plant and animal species has long been at the heart of many ecological and conservation projects, and has historically been a focus of land and environmental stewardship principles held by native and first peoples all over the world. But what if a beloved plant or animal is considered invasive, like the palm trees of Los Angeles or the cattle of Texas? What are the effects or consequences of centuries of existence with this invasive species in a particular locale? This week reflect on the notion of belonging—what are various places and times when you have felt a strong sense of belonging, and situations when you did not feel you belonged? Consider your own perspectives and responses when you encounter someone or something else that seems invasive or does not belong.

In Stephen King’s 1983 novel, Pet Sematary , a doctor moves into a remote house in Maine with his wife, two young children, and their pet cat, and learns from a neighbor about an ancient burial ground nearby cursed by a malevolent spirit which gave it power to reanimate those buried there. This is put to the test first by the family cat, and then by members of the family who die throughout the course of King’s horror story. While each formerly dead being is returned to the land of the living, they don’t come back quite the same. Write a story in which a creature or person returns from the dead, either in actuality or under circumstances in which their reappearance feels as if they are “back from the dead.” What familiar traits remain the same and what is disconcertingly different? Is their return ultimately for the better or the worse?

“I told a friend about a spill at the grocery store, which—the words ‘conveyor belt’ vanishing midsentence—took place on a ‘supermarket treadmill,’” writes Madeleine Schwartz in a recent essay published by New York Times Magazine about her experience of negotiating with and toggling between the French and English languages after moving from New York to Paris. In the piece, Schwartz notes that as she became more comfortable with living and thinking in French, she noticed a blurring of her linguistic capabilities, including a muddling of her articulative abilities in English. Think about a time or situation when words have failed you, or you’ve drawn a blank as to the mot juste. Write a poem that traces or enacts a loss of language, perhaps using invented words, phrases, and spellings or experimenting with font sizes, line breaks, and spacing.

Edible Memories

Many foods, flavors, and dishes hold a wellspring of emotional associations because they remind us of loved ones, habits and traditions, specific locales, and a different time of our lives when we were different people. Write a series of flash nonfiction pieces this week with each segment focusing on an edible item that evokes particularly resonant memories for you. You might begin by jotting down lists of foods you ate regularly growing up—breakfasts, school lunches, vending machine go-tos, favorite fast-food joints, diners, late night spots, home-cooked specialties—as well as a few momentous meals. Who are the people you associate with each one? Aside from taste and smell, consider the surrounding environment, atmospheric sounds, time of year, and who you were at that point in your life.

Wheels and Nails

While the American proverb “the squeaky wheel gets the grease” may be one you’ve heard time and again, often in reference to the idea that whoever raises or vocalizes a criticism the loudest will be appeased, there is a Japanese saying that translates to “the nail that sticks out gets hammered down,” which points to the positives of conformity in order to maintain a productive and humble society. It can also refer to putting someone who has become too successful back down in their place. Write a story in which your main character diverges from a group of people, and sticks their neck out, so to speak. Perhaps they vocalize a contrary perspective, protest something they feel is unjust, or simply present themselves in an unconventional manner. What are the consequences? Does your story lean toward one proverbial lesson or the other, or does the conclusion demonstrate more ambiguity?

Night at the Museum

If you could spend a night at any museum, which would you choose, and why? The French publisher Editions Stock has a series of books that begins with this premise—each author selects a museum, arrangements are made for an overnight stay, and a book is written about the experience. In Jakuta Alikavazovic’s Like a Sky Inside , translated from the French by Daniel Levin Becker, she spends a night at the Louvre in Paris, where childhood memories of visits with her father are vividly recalled. “From March 7 to 8, 2020, I spent the night in the Louvre, alone. Alone and at the same time anything but,” writes Alikavazovic. Write a poem that imagines a night at a museum of your choosing, anywhere in the world. What memories will you excavate from this imagined, solitary experience?

Chosen Family

Although the origin of the term is unknown and can be defined in many ways, a chosen family is made up of a group of people who choose to embrace, nurture, and support each other despite conventional understandings of biological or marital relationships. Oftentimes a chosen family is formed to take the place of a biological family, however, in some cases, these relationships are formed to expand a family. Write a personal essay about a relationship you have with a chosen family member. How did you first meet? Was there a particular incident that catalyzed what would become an inextricable bond? Has your commitment to each other been tested in ways big or small? Reflect on past memories and experiences you have had with this special person and how your relationship has evolved over the years.

Kingdom of the Planet

In the 1968 science fiction film Planet of the Apes , which is based on French author Pierre Boulle’s 1963 novel and has spawned several sequels and a recent reboot, a crew of astronauts crash-lands on a planet ruled by apes who have developed an advanced and hierarchical civilization, complete with systems of governance, labor, scientific research, and a military force. In this far-off place, humans have been reduced to mute primitive beings who are subjugated and kept captive as workers for the primates. Write a speculative story that takes place in another universe with a premise revolving around a role reversal. What are the rules and governing structures of the society that you invent? You might decide to approach your narrative with a tone of horror, satire, or comedy to emphasize your perspective on stereotypical assumptions and social expectations.

Another Country

“I love these raw moist dawns with / a thousand birds you hear but can’t / quite see in the mist. / My old alien body is a foreigner / struggling to get into another country. / The loon call makes me shiver. / Back at the cabin I see a book / and am not quite sure what that is.” In these eight lines that comprise Jim Harrison’s poem “Another Country,” which appears in his final collection, Dead Man’s Float (Copper Canyon Press, 2016), the late poet moves between observations about a natural outdoor setting and the speaker’s own bodily presence, arriving in the final two lines at a sentiment that expresses a feeling of defamiliarization at the seemingly mundane sight of a book. This week write a poem that explores the concept of being so absorbed in one environment or circumstance that to behold a different scene is like traveling to a strange and unknown realm.

Self-Healing

A recent study in Scientific Reports journal revealed that, for possibly the first time, a nonhuman wild animal was seen using plant medicine to heal an active wound. In a rainforest in Indonesia, a Sumatran orangutan was observed ripping off leaves from a climbing vine plant, chewing them, and applying the plant sap to treat a wound on his face, which then healed after a few days. Write a personal essay on the theme of self-healing. Think about experiences when you’ve witnessed another person perform this task, or particularly resonant memories that pertain to your own past behavior. What are the primary emotions present throughout this process? What instances of self-treatment or self-medication in film, art, or literature created an impression on you?

Campus Story

Take inspiration from the concept of a campus novel—which takes place in and around the campus of a university and often involves the intertwined dynamics of students, professors, and conventions about learning and power—and write a story that engages with a school setting, whether prominently situated in the context of the plot or used for a particular scene. Some recent additions to the campus novel canon include Elif Batuman’s The Idiot (Penguin Press, 2017), Xochitl Gonzalez’s Anita de Monte Laughs Last (Flatiron Books, 2024), Kiley Reid’s Come and Get It (G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 2024), and Brandon Taylor’s Real Life (Riverhead Books, 2020). Will you include a character who is a student, teacher, administrative staff member, custodial worker or caretaker, or possibly an alumni revisiting the past? Consider the multitude of ways the incorporation of an educational environment might permeate the atmosphere of the narrative.

The Last Friend

“The day the last friend / dies / we sit alone. / A visitor / from outer space / tries hard / to summon us. / Someone says / EAT DEATH. / I fish around for answers / but the questions / still won’t come,” writes Jerome Rothenberg, who passed away in April, in his poem “The Last Friend.” Included in his collection of one hundred poems, A Book of Witness: Spells & Gris-Gris (New Directions, 2022), the poem presents a list of statements and observations, many of which refer to death or dying in some personal way, though the connections are enigmatic and the logical progression is oblique. Try your hand at writing a poem that mentions its subject directly, but which also deliberately obfuscates or remains ambiguous in its intentions. How might using the “I” as a witness include the reader into your point of view?

Mind Your Manners

The New York City culture and news website Gothamist recently asked New Yorkers about their thoughts on sidewalk etiquette in the crowded, bustling streets of their beloved city. What are the rules, who has the right-of-way, and who should yield? Respondents focused on always walking to the right of the sidewalk and to “move quickly and never stop.” One thoughtful respondent considered the cultural differences of sidewalks used for recreational strolls versus commuting. But the overall consensus was that among nine-to-fivers, tourists, parents with kids, dogwalkers, bicyclists, and groups, seniors deserve the right-of-way. Write an essay about the unwritten rules or etiquette you have observed in your daily surroundings. How have these common practices adapted to fit the needs of different people? Do they evolve over time as social norms change? Consider some of your own experiences with how public etiquette has helped or hindered harmonious community life.

The term sub rosa means “under the rose” in Latin and refers to something said or done in private. The rose has been associated with secrecy since ancient times, a decorative symbol often carved and painted in places like meeting rooms, banquet halls, and confessionals as reminders of confidentiality. This week write a short story that revolves around a conversation or discussion that occurs sub rosa in an enclosed space. Does a certain detail get leaked out or overheard? How might the secretive nature place a burden on your characters? Consider the ways in which the atmosphere and tone of your story feel distinctive in the time and space of your sub-rosa conversation versus the scenes that take place before or after the talk.

Wisdom in Translation

In the anthology Another Room to Live In: 15 Contemporary Arab Poets (Litmus Press, 2024) edited by Omar Berrada and Sarah Riggs, multinational and multilingual poet-translators challenge foundational narratives and rework mythologies through poetic expression. Yasmine Seale’s poem “Conventional Wisdom (Arabic Saying Translated Twenty Ways)” is composed of translations of an ancient aphorism expressing the inextricable place of poetry within Arab cultural heritage. Each line presents a variation on the truism: “Poetry is the record of the Arabs / The art of poetry is Arabs, collected / Good poetry is a list of Arabs / To speak in verse is to remain in Arab memory / To surpass another poet is the Arab odyssey.” Write a poem inspired by this idea of translating a proverb or maxim—either from another language or from English into English. How might you creatively interpolate different “translations” of the saying by incorporating connotations and riffing on free associations and personal experiences?

In Response

In a recent interview with Aria Aber for the Yale Review , when asked his thoughts on the responsibility of the poet, Jackson Prize–winning poet Fady Joudah says, “I often think that the responsibility of the poet is to strive to become the memory that people may possess in the future about what it means to be human: an ever-changing constant. In poetry, the range of metaphors and topics is limited, predictable, but the styles are innumerable. Think how we read poetry from centuries ago and are no longer bothered by its outdated diction. All that remains of old poetry is the music of what it means to be human.” Write a creative nonfiction piece that presents your personal theory of the responsibility of a writer or an artist. To construct an expansive approach, you might use observations about how different creative disciplines overlap in their goals, or consider what has remained resonant as the arts make their mark throughout various eras.

Earth to You

In honor of Earth Week, write a scene that revolves around a character who experiences an unexpected moment in a natural environment that produces a sensation of wonder, perhaps an unusual encounter with wild flora or fauna. You might contrast the elements of this scene with others in your story in which the character is interacting solely with humans or only attuned to the sounds, rhythms, and sights of city life and densely packed civilization. Is the occurrence mind-bogglingly quick and then reflected upon in hindsight, or does time slow down in the scene? How do you manage or manipulate the pacing and rhythm of your prose to draw attention to the emotional and psychological response of the character?

From Dirt Level

In Sharon Olds’s poem “May 1968,” the speaker recounts the memory of spending the night with other protesting students, who lay down their bodies on a New York City street at a university’s campus gates in order to obstruct the mounted police force that had been called in. While “spine-down on the cobbles,” she observes the city and surrounding scenery—the soaring buildings and the police and horses’ bodies—as she gazes upward, thinking about the state of her pregnant body. Write a poem this week from the vantage point of lying face-up, “from dirt level.” What circumstances bring you into this position? How does this upward point of view transform what you see, and how you feel about your own body?

More, please? Or, no more, please? In The Fast: The History, Science, Philosophy, and Promise of Doing Without (Avid Reader Press, 2024), John Oakes recounts his personal experience conducting a weeklong fast and examines the practice’s history and place within a wide range of religions and philosophies. The book also explores the act of self-deprivation and the potential transformative benefits of subtracting rather than adding to one’s life. “The act of fasting…won’t stop routine, but impedes it for a bit, signifying a shift and a determined unwillingness to follow standard operating procedure,” writes Oakes. Use this idea to consider your personal relationship with consumption—of food, conversation, media, clothes, space—and write a personal essay that reflects on what you might otherwise take for granted.

All in Your Head

In “Table for One,” a short story from Korean author Yun Ko-eun’s new collection of the same name, translated by Lizzie Buehler and published by Columbia University Press in April, a surreal quality seeps into the tale of a lonely office worker who enrolls in a course to make solitary dining easier. Tips from the course include: “Target corner tables rather than those in the middle. Seats at the bar are also good. Hang your coat or bag on the chair facing you and take advantage of tools like a book, earphones, a cell phone, or a newspaper.” The fantastic element of the story lies less in the oddity of the premise than in the narrator’s meticulously recounted neuroses and detailed rendering of processes that become seemingly cyclical. Write a scene that focuses on your character’s minute observations as they attempt to overcome something debilitating. Does the situation lend itself to a quirky or dark sense of humor?

Neither Questions nor Answers

“Where is the homeland / to lay a cradle for the dead / Where is the other shore / for poetry to step across the end point / Where is the peace / that lets the days distribute blue sky...” In Sidetracks , forthcoming in May from New Directions, the Chinese poet Bei Dao begins his book-length poem with a list of twenty-five enigmatic questions that dance around mythological, philosophical, and existential subjects. In Jeffrey Yang’s translation, the speaker’s questions lack the end punctuation of the original text, with question marks omitted. Through these unanswered questions, the poet conjures loss and nostalgia. Loosely following this structure, write a prologue to a poem that poses a series of questions gesturing toward your most pressing uncertainties. While Bei Dao’s lines are mysterious and mystical, allow your poem the tone and allusions that feel instinctive to you.

With Certainty

In a 1789 letter, Benjamin Franklin wrote the phrase, “in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” Franklin was reflecting on the establishment of the U.S. Constitution, which he said promised to be durable, as well as his own ailing health and mortality. This week write a personal essay that riffs off this proverb, reflecting on your own worldview about what can be certain. You might start off with the prompt: “In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death, taxes, and ______.” Tell the story of how you arrived at your own ideas about what you can always count on, whether good or bad. What past experiences, encounters, or memories seem to reinforce your belief?

About Our Writing Prompts

What is a writing prompt and how do you use one? Whether you find yourself in front of a blank page or stuck in a work-in-progress, writing prompts can offer a spark that ignites your creative thinking and can lead to new writing. Prompts offer guidance, fresh ideas, and direction for writers of all levels of experience. First, choose a prompt for the genre in which you’d like to write, then carefully read it and consider what it is asking you to think about. It could be a specific setting, a writing technique, or an element of an imagined character; a specific poem, story, essay, song, book, or film from which you might take inspiration; or a current event or a topical theme. A writing prompt is filled with endless possibilities—and there is no wrong way to use one to generate new writing!

What makes our writing prompts unique? We have an archive of over 2,000 prompts, all original and offered here and in our weekly newsletter . You’ll find a variety of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction prompts—some inspired by recent and classic literature and other forms of art, current events, and writing practices, and others that offer guidance for a particular form, including sonnets, erasure poetry, flash fiction, lyric essays, and more. For more than fifty years, Poets & Writers has supported creative writers with trustworthy information and inspiration, and our weekly prompts provide a regular dose of encouragement and motivation.

What are the benefits of using writing prompts? Writing prompts can help you get unstuck if you’re in a rut and the ideas aren’t flowing. But even if you’re not experiencing writer’s block, writing prompts can offer a fresh take or a new approach to a work-in-progress. Writing prompts can also provide the motivation to experiment with a new form, try out a new genre, or learn about other writing techniques. And writing prompts are an invaluable tool for teachers who want to encourage and inspire their writing students.

What is this list of Best Books? Best Books for Writers is a list of essential books for creative writers that we curate to support your writing practice. Every week, we add a book (whether new or a classic) with a synopsis and highlights. Included are books on the writing life, anthologies of craft essays, collections of lectures, practical guides with writing exercises, and more.

Poetry writing prompts Every Tuesday we post a new poetry prompt to guide you in your practice. Get to know the work of contemporary and classic poets, as well as a variety of poetic forms.

Fiction writing prompts Every Wednesday we post a new fiction prompt to spark your imagination. Take inspiration from recently published short stories and novels, and of course, the classics.

Creative nonfiction writing prompts Every Thursday we post a new creative nonfiction prompt to help your exploration of this ever-changing genre. These prompts include information and inspiration for a variety of essays as well as memoirs. Discover new writers and their craft, and fresh ways to generate writing inspired by your life.

Need a starter pack? Check out our Writing Prompts for Beginners .

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75 Best Gifts for the Man Who Has Everything

Buy the special guy in your life something unique for Father's Day, his birthday or just because.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

It’s thankfully not only about golf and grilling these days (although we cover those activities too, of course). No matter what he likes and wants, like a travel espresso machine to help ease him into each new day or his own personal mini whiskey barrel to make everything in life a little easier, buying gifts for guys — including the ones who have everything — is, it turns out, pretty darn fun.

With that said, these are the best gifts for men in 2024 , featuring top-tested items, best-sellers, editor's picks and other cool items thrown, like a smartphone-controlled paper airplane — no, seriously! It’s so cool!

Our top gifts for men in 2024:

• Daioloes BBQ Net Tubes , $12 at amazon.com
• Multitool Pen , $16 at amazon.com
• Wireless Charging Station , $50 at amazon.com
• RADCLO Mini Drone with Camera , $54 at amazon.com
• TUSHY Basic 2.0 Bidet , $70 on amazon.com

Looking for even more great gift ideas ? Check out these Good Housekeeping guides: The Best Gifts for Dads | Cool Ideas for Boyfriends | Nice Presents for Grandpa | Fun Gifts for Brothers

Screen Magnifier for Smartphone

He can stream movies, YouTube videos and Facetimes so much easier with this amplifier. There are no batteries required, and all he has to do is unroll it and place his phone behind the screen to start viewing.

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YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler

Coolers can be weird, boxy, cumbersome, and heavy to lug to the beach or campsite. The YETI Hopper Backpack Cooler solves all those problems and does so in classic YETI style, with cool new colors King Crab Orange, Agave Teal and Camp Green.

RELATED : The Best Coolers We Tested

PowerUp 4.0 Smartphone-Controlled Paper Airplane Kit

Long before he was addicted to refreshing Twitter, checking his email and playing games on his phone, he could be found folding paper into the shape of airplanes and seeing how far each could fly. Take the special man in your life back to his childhood days, and let him bring his smartphone along for the flight because this ingenious gift of a modern paper airplane to build is controlled via his phone like he’s in the cockpit of the plane itself!

Telephoto Lens

He'll get four different lenses that can easily attach to his phone, bringing him telescope quality viewing without the bulk. Perfect for bird watching or checking out a baseball game.

Wireless Charging Station

Charging stations are awesome, but most of them are ugly. This one isn't. It has a sleek design, and even has a light that can be adjusted, making it the perfect bedside companion.

Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack

It's a little pricey, but damn, does it look good. Samsonite is a brand you can trust for its quality, while the backpack itself can hold everything from his laptop to his headphones. It also comes in black if the brown is out of stock.

ThisWorx Car Vacuum Cleaner

Whether his car is a mess or the cleanest ride you've ever seen, he'll appreciate how easy it is to work this vacuum. It's compact enough to stay in the trunk, but is big on suction.

Compression Packing Cubes

A one-time purchase of these clever packing cubes will save the traveling man in your life a fortune in checked bag fees at the airport! His clothes and gear magically shrink down to size so that he can easily carry on and be on the move the moment the plane lands without milling about the luggage carousel.

Password Book

A top gift for everyone right now, this log will keep all of his passwords, bank account info and more safe and sound. It'll really come in handy if he's always forgetting the family's Wi-Fi password.

Axe Pizza Cutter

For a little bit of delight for the man who loves pizza, get him this fun cutter that's shaped like an axe. It's not only cool, but Amazon reviewers say it works really well.

Premium Leather Toiletry Travel Pouch

Few things feel fancier than a leather bag, so you can rest assured this will be a hit when you present it to him. Even if he doesn't travel a lot, he'll love having a place to keep all his grooming products.

Wireless Charger for Apple Watch

We've all been on a walk or run, and realized our Apple Watch has died. Disappointing for sure. But with this nifty little portable gadget, he can still count his steps as it charges.

Sharper Image® LED Light-Up Word Clock

Clocks aren't an obvious gift, but how could you not find this one from Sharper Image just so cool? It's a totally unique gift that, Amazon users say, is a total conversation piece.

ConairMAN Ultimate Trim Precision All-in-One Beard Trimmer

You know our experts spend hours testing products, so if you're going to splurge on a gift for him, be sure to check with us first. Our experts rated this the best value electric razor for men because it doesn't snag, works well for thicker beards and mustaches and is super quiet.

RELATED: Best Electric Razors for Men

Stanley Classic Stay Chill Vacuum Insulated Pint Tumbler

You've probably got at least one Stanley cup in your house. Now, it's his turn to experience the quality of the brand. He can tote any drink in it, but it's particularly impressive with iced drinks, as the brand says it'll keep them cold for 17 hours.

AAA Premium Road Kit

It's not the most glamorous gift, for sure, but really, everyone should have this in their car. It comes with a flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit and so much more to keep him safe out there.

Macallan Truffles

Combine his two favorite things with this luxe set of chocolates. Each square's filling features 18-year Macallan single-malt scotch, which if you know anything about scotch, is pretty much as good as it gets.

BBQ Net Tubes

Your favorite grilling guy is going to love rolling asparagus, bell peppers, string beans, onions and even fresh fruit — seriously, try grilled peaches drizzled with aged balsamic vinegar — all over an open flame in these brilliant stainless steel mesh rolling grill baskets. And he'll also love that they can go in the dishwasher when he's done.

Car Phone Holder

A cool car gadget is always a great idea, especially when it has over 30,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, like this phone holder. It's not so novel, but reviewers noted that it's easy to mount and works like a charm.

RELATED: Best Car Accessories on Amazon That Are (Almost) All Under $50

Slim Wallet with Money Clip

It's one of the top gifts for men on Amazon with over 75,000 5-star reviews. Available in so many different colors, it's sleek with can still hold up to 11 cards. Plus, it's RFID-blocking to keep his info. safe.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} The Best Gift Ideas for All Occasions

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The Best Student Writing Contests for 2023-2024

Help your students take their writing to the next level.

When students write for teachers, it can feel like an assignment. When they write for a real purpose, they are empowered! Student writing contests are a challenging and inspiring way to try writing for an authentic audience— a real panel of judges —and the possibility of prize money or other incentives. We’ve gathered a list of the best student writing contests, and there’s something for everyone. Prepare highly motivated kids in need of an authentic writing mentor, and watch the words flow.

1.  The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

With a wide range of categories—from critical essays to science fiction and fantasy—The Scholastic Awards are a mainstay of student contests. Each category has its own rules and word counts, so be sure to check out the options  before you decide which one is best for your students.

How To Enter

Students in grades 7-12, ages 13 and up, may begin submitting work in September by uploading to an online account at Scholastic and connecting to their local region. There are entry fees, but those can be waived for students in need.

2.  YoungArts National Arts Competition

This ends soon, but if you have students who are ready to submit, it’s worth it. YoungArts offers a national competition in the categories of creative nonfiction, novel, play or script, poetry, short story, and spoken word. Student winners may receive awards of up to $10,000 as well as the chance to participate in artistic development with leaders in their fields.

YoungArts accepts submissions in each category through October 13. Students submit their work online and pay a $35 fee (there is a fee waiver option).

3. National Youth Foundation Programs

Each year, awards are given for Student Book Scholars, Amazing Women, and the “I Matter” Poetry & Art competition. This is a great chance for kids to express themselves with joy and strength.

The rules, prizes, and deadlines vary, so check out the website for more info.

4.  American Foreign Service National High School Essay Contest

If you’re looking to help students take a deep dive into international relations, history, and writing, look no further than this essay contest. Winners receive a voyage with the Semester at Sea program and a trip to Washington, DC.

Students fill out a registration form online, and a teacher or sponsor is required. The deadline to enter is the first week of April.

5.  John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Essay Contest

This annual contest invites students to write about a political official’s act of political courage that occurred after Kennedy’s birth in 1917. The winner receives $10,000, and 16 runners-up also receive a variety of cash prizes.

Students may submit a 700- to 1,000-word essay through January 12. The essay must feature more than five sources and a full bibliography.

6. Bennington Young Writers Awards

Bennington College offers competitions in three categories: poetry (a group of three poems), fiction (a short story or one-act play), and nonfiction (a personal or academic essay). First-place winners receive $500. Grab a poster for your classroom here .

The contest runs from September 1 to November 1. The website links to a student registration form.

7. The Princeton Ten-Minute Play Contest

Looking for student writing contests for budding playwrights? This exclusive competition, which is open only to high school juniors, is judged by the theater faculty of Princeton University. Students submit short plays in an effort to win recognition and cash prizes of up to $500. ( Note: Only open to 11th graders. )

Students submit one 10-page play script online or by mail. The deadline is the end of March. Contest details will be published in early 2024.

8. Princeton University Poetry Contest for High School Students

The Leonard L. Milberg ’53 High School Poetry Prize recognizes outstanding work by student writers in 11th grade. Prizes range from $100 to $500.

Students in 11th grade can submit their poetry. Contest details will be published this fall.

9. The New York Times Tiny Memoir Contest

This contest is also a wonderful writing challenge, and the New York Times includes lots of resources and models for students to be able to do their best work. They’ve even made a classroom poster !

Submissions need to be made electronically by November 1.

10.  Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest

The deadline for this contest is the end of October. Sponsored by Hollins University, the Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest awards prizes for the best poems submitted by young women who are sophomores or juniors in high school or preparatory school. Prizes include cash and scholarships. Winners are chosen by students and faculty members in the creative writing program at Hollins.

Students may submit either one or two poems using the online form.

11.  The Patricia Grodd Poetry Prize for Young Writers

The Patricia Grodd Poetry Prize for Young Writers is open to high school sophomores and juniors, and the winner receives a full scholarship to a  Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop .

Submissions for the prize are accepted electronically from November 1 through November 30.

12. Jane Austen Society Essay Contest

High school students can win up to $1,000 and publication by entering an essay on a topic specified by the Jane Austen Society related to a Jane Austen novel.

Details for the 2024 contest will be announced in November. Essay length is from six to eight pages, not including works cited.

13. Rattle Young Poets Anthology

Open to students from 15 to 18 years old who are interested in publication and exposure over monetary awards.

Teachers may choose five students for whom to submit up to four poems each on their behalf. The deadline is November 15.

14. The Black River Chapbook Competition

This is a chance for new and emerging writers to gain publication in their own professionally published chapbook, as well as $500 and free copies of the book.

There is an $18 entry fee, and submissions are made online.

15. YouthPlays New Voices

For students under 18, the YouthPlays one-act competition is designed for young writers to create new works for the stage. Winners receive cash awards and publication.

Scroll all the way down their web page for information on the contest, which accepts non-musical plays between 10 and 40 minutes long, submitted electronically. Entries open each year in January.

16. The Ocean Awareness Contest

The 2024 Ocean Awareness Contest, Tell Your Climate Story , encourages students to write their own unique climate story. They are asking for creative expressions of students’ personal experiences, insights, or perceptions about climate change. Students are eligible for a wide range of monetary prizes up to $1,000.

Students from 11 to 18 years old may submit work in the categories of art, creative writing, poetry and spoken word, film, interactive media and multimedia, or music and dance, accompanied by a reflection. The deadline is June 13.

17. EngineerGirl Annual Essay Contest

Each year, EngineerGirl sponsors an essay contest with topics centered on the impact of engineering on the world, and students can win up to $500 in prize money. This contest is a nice bridge between ELA and STEM and great for teachers interested in incorporating an interdisciplinary project into their curriculum. The new contest asks for pieces describing the life cycle of an everyday object. Check out these tips for integrating the content into your classroom .

Students submit their work electronically by February 1. Check out the full list of rules and requirements here .

18. NCTE Student Writing Awards

The National Council of Teachers of English offers several student writing awards, including Achievement Awards in Writing (for 10th- and 11th-grade students), Promising Young Writers (for 8th-grade students), and an award to recognize Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines.

Deadlines range from October 28 to February 15. Check out NCTE.org for more details.

19. See Us, Support Us Art Contest

Children of incarcerated parents can submit artwork, poetry, photos, videos, and more. Submissions are free and the website has a great collection of past winners.

Students can submit their entries via social media or email by October 25.

20. The Adroit Prizes for Poetry & Prose

The Adroit Journal, an education-minded nonprofit publication, awards annual prizes for poetry and prose to exceptional high school and college students. Adroit charges an entry fee but also provides a form for financial assistance.

Sign up at the website for updates for the next round of submissions.

21. National PTA Reflections Awards

The National PTA offers a variety of awards, including one for literature, in their annual Reflections Contest. Students of all ages can submit entries on the specified topic to their local PTA Reflections program. From there, winners move to the local area, state, and national levels. National-level awards include an $800 prize and a trip to the National PTA Convention.

This program requires submitting to PTAs who participate in the program. Check your school’s PTA for their deadlines.

22. World Historian Student Essay Competition

The World Historian Student Essay Competition is an international contest open to students enrolled in grades K–12 in public, private, and parochial schools, as well as those in home-study programs. The $500 prize is based on an essay that addresses one of this year’s two prompts.

Students can submit entries via email or regular mail before May 1.

23. NSHSS Creative Writing Scholarship

The National Society of High School Scholars awards three $2,000 scholarships for both poetry and fiction. They accept poetry, short stories, and graphic novel writing.

Apply online by October 31.

Whether you let your students blog, start a podcast or video channel, or enter student writing contests, giving them an authentic audience for their work is always a powerful classroom choice.

If you like this list of student writing contests and want more articles like it, subscribe to our newsletters to find out when they’re posted!

Plus, check out our favorite anchor charts for teaching writing..

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Guest Essay

Trump’s Third Act? American Gangster.

By Samuel Earle

Mr. Earle is the author of “Tory Nation: How One Party Took Over.”

In recent months, Donald Trump has been trying out a new routine. At rallies and town halls across the country, he compares himself to Al Capone. “He was seriously tough, right?” Mr. Trump told a rally in Iowa in October , in an early rendition of the act. But “he was only indicted one time; I’ve been indicted four times.” (Capone was, in fact, indicted at least six times.) The implication is not just that Mr. Trump is being unfairly persecuted but also that he is four times as tough as Capone. “If you looked at him in the wrong way,” Mr. Trump explained, “he blew your brains out."

Mr. Trump’s eagerness to invoke Capone reflects an important shift in the image he wants to project to the world. In 2016, Mr. Trump played the reality TV star and businessman who would shake up politics, shock and entertain. In 2020, Mr. Trump was the strongman, desperately trying to hold on to power by whatever means possible. In 2024, Mr. Trump is in his third act: the American gangster, heir to Al Capone — besieged by the authorities, charged with countless egregious felonies but surviving and thriving nonetheless, with an air of macho invincibility.

The evidence of Mr. Trump’s mobster pivot is everywhere. He rants endlessly about his legal cases in his stump speeches. On Truth Social, he boasts about having a bigger team of lawyers “than any human being in the history of our Country, including even the late great gangster, Alphonse Capone!” His team has used his mug shot — taken after he was indicted on a charge of racketeering in August — on T-shirts, mugs, Christmas wrapping, bumper stickers, beer coolers and even NFTs. They’ve sold off parts of the blue suit he was wearing in that now-infamous photo for more than $4,000 a piece (it came with a dinner with Mr. Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort).

Commentators have long pointed out that Mr. Trump behaves like a mob boss: The way he demands loyalty from his followers, lashes out at rivals, bullies authorities and flaunts his impunity are all reminiscent of the wiseguys Americans know so well from movies and television. As a real-estate mogul in New York, he seems to have relished working with mobsters and learned their vernacular before bringing their methods into the White House: telling James Comey, “I expect loyalty”; imploring Volodymyr Zelensky, “Do us a favor”; and pressuring Georgia’s secretary of state, “Fellas, I need 11,000 votes.” But before, he downplayed the mobster act in public. Now he actively courts the comparison.

Mr. Trump’s audacious embrace of a criminal persona flies in the face of conventional wisdom. When Richard Nixon told the American public, “I am not a crook,” the underlying assumption was that voters would not want a crook in the White House. Mr. Trump is testing this assumption. It’s a canny piece of marketing. A violent mobster and a self-mythologizing millionaire, Capone sanitized his crimes by cultivating an aura of celebrity and bravery, grounded in distrust of the state and a narrative of unfair persecution. The public lapped it up. “Everybody sympathizes with him,” Vanity Fair noted of Capone in 1931, as the authorities closed in on him. “Al has made murder a popular amusement.” In similar fashion, Mr. Trump tries to turn his indictments into amusement, inviting his supporters to play along. “They’re not after me, they’re after you — I’m just standing in the way!” he says, a line that greets visitors to his website, as well.

Mr. Trump clearly hopes that his Al Capone act will offer at least some cover from the four indictments he faces. And there is a twisted logic to what he is doing: By adopting the guise of the gangster, he is able to recast his lawbreaking as vigilante justice — a subversive attempt to preserve order and peace — and transform himself into a folk hero. Partly thanks to this framing, it seems unlikely that a criminal conviction will topple his candidacy: not only because Mr. Trump has already taken so many other scandals in his stride but also because, as Capone shows, the convicted criminal can be as much an American icon as the cowboy and the frontiersman. In this campaign, Mr. Trump’s mug shot is his message — and the repeated references to Al Capone are there for anyone who needs it spelled out.

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