You can always buy the fantasy reader in your life more books. That is always an option. But it can be a little tricky. Which authors do they love? Which ones do they hate? Perhaps they already have that book—or they want a particular UK hardcover edition. Fantasy readers can be a picky group. You could get them a gift card, but do you really want to give up that easily?
This gift guide features non-book options for your bookish friends. And yes, some of these suggestions are a bit peculiar.
Enjoy!
Albion Sword
This is an extravagant gift. You wouldn’t buy just anyone an Albion sword. But I’m fairly certain every epic fantasy reader wants a cool sword hanging on their wall—and Albion swords are very, very cool. Cheaper swords exist, but they won’t be cherished and handed down through the generations like this one would.
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Art Print by Michael Whelan
If you’re going to buy a print, buy it directly from the artist (that way you can get it signed)—and why not go with one of the all-time greats, when it comes to fantasy art? Michael Whelan painted the cover art for the Dark Tower series and the Stormlight Archive. And if you don’t know which art print to buy, go with something weird. Whelan is at his best when he’s being bizarre.
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Mushroom Lamp
I’ve never been keen on the various adjustable “reading lights” out there. Give me a quiet room and a lamp. I’ll be fine.
Instead of a puny reading light, you should give your fantasy reader a magical mushroom lamp via Etsy. Soft light for late night reading, and it definitely sets the mood.
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Booknook
While you’re on Etsy, take a moment and search some of the “booknooks” or “book shelf inserts” available. They’re pretty cool. Since they’re mostly custom made and handcrafted, they can be a little pricey. Also, read the descriptions carefully, i.e. some assembly required.
But a booknook can be a welcome addition to someone’s fantasy book shelf.
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Hogarth Hills Artisan Soap
Soap made by nerds for nerds. These soaps are handmade with high-quality ingredients. I love the thought that’s put into each product. For example, there’s a seasonal soap inspired by Stephen King’s IT called “Winter Fire,” based on the poem about Bev. It's a blend of smoldering cedarwood, leather, tumbleweed, with rich amber, cashmere musk, terracotta and more. There’s also a Doctor Strange inspired soap (“Sanctum Sanctorum”) and a Lord of the Rings soap (“Undying Lands”).
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Swag from the Splintered Wand
A wizard pub just opened in Seattle. Let me say that again: a wizard pub just opened in Seattle. If you live near Seattle, take your fantasy reader friend to the pub. Buy them a drink. Be wizards! However, if you don’t live near Seattle, I imagine they will eventually have swag. And wizard pub swag sounds like a pretty cool holiday gift to me.
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The Pratchett Convention T-Shirt
Sir Terry Pratchett wore this t-shirt, whenever he made a convention appearance (as mentioned on Buzzfeed). You can buy a facsimile of the famous t-shirt, because you can buy anything online. This gift falls under the category of “If You Know, You Know.”
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Membership to Tolkien Society
Members get the newsletter, Amon Hen, six times a year—along with the annual Mallorn, which comes out on Christmas. This gift keep giving! I’d opt for the postal print version because it’s fun to get stuff in the mail. Also, now your fantasy reader friend is part of an organization promoting the work of Tolkien since 1972.
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Sci-Fi & Fantasy Subscription Box
I said this gift guide wouldn’t include books, but I’m making an exception with this subscription box from the iconic Strand Bookstore. Each Strand box includes a signed first edition and other goodies.
Other subscription boxes are worth looking into. Illumicrate seems to have great exclusives for fantasy readers—although it’s shipping from the UK, which can be tricky and increase the price. And Fae Crate also looks good. Based in the US and more YA oriented.
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Cameo
The kitsch of Cameo reached its zenith sometime in 2020, but I still think it’s cool to get a brief “Greetings, Fellow Human” video from someone you admire. Sadly, there aren’t many authors on the site. (Come on, Neil Gaiman, Robin Hobb. Where are you?) However, if you’re into Game of Thrones, Vikings, The Expanse, LOTR, Doctor Who, etc, those actors are ready and available. And who wouldn’t want a call from Sean Astin or Felicia Day?
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