Gifts for someone new who loves reading, $50–100

For someone new who is always halfway through a book. Seven Valentine's gifts, each chosen because it belongs in their hands, and each with a plain reason they'll feel it was picked for them.

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Chosen from gifts shoppers rated 4.3 out of 5 or better when we found them. Prices as of Nov 2, 2026. Prices and availability may change.

Our top pick

Food of Life: Ancient Persian and Modern Iranian Cooking and Ceremonies

Mage Publishers

Food of Life: Ancient Persian and Modern Iranian Cooking and Ceremonies

Why we think this fits
a cookbook that reads like a history of Persian food as much as a recipe collection
What makes it special
ancient Persian and modern Iranian recipes collected alongside their ceremonies

See it in someone's hands

Rocket Men: The Daring Odyssey of Apollo 8 and the Astronauts Who Made Man's First Journey to the Moon

Penguin Random House

Rocket Men: The Daring Odyssey of Apollo 8 and the Astronauts Who Made Man's First Journey to the Moon

Why we think this fits
a real-life adventure story following the first crew to leave earth's orbit
What makes it special
tells the true story behind the daring odyssey of Apollo 8's first journey to the moon
WhatPlus Portable CD Player with Bluetooth and Speakers, Light Purple | Rechargeable retro suitcase design with magnetic back, AUX and TF card support for home decor, travel and gifting

whatplus

WhatPlus Portable CD Player with Bluetooth and Speakers, Light Purple | Rechargeable retro suitcase design with magnetic back, AUX and TF card support for home decor, travel and gifting

What makes it special
a retro-modern design with a leather finish and 3-in-1 playback for cds, aux, or tf cards

See it in someone's hands

What makes it special
custom acrylic plaque with a UV print that resists peeling and fading over time

Three more worth a look

Ranked below the four above, still chosen for the same person.

Super Blanky Wearable Blanket for Women & Men Christmas Day Gifts for Women | 70 x 60-Inch Adult Wearable Blanket, Christmas Gift for Her, Birthday Gifts for Women, Gifts for Wife, White Elephant Gifts

Super Blanky

Super Blanky Wearable Blanket for Women & Men Christmas Day Gifts for Women | 70 x 60-Inch Adult Wearable Blanket, Christmas Gift for Her, Birthday Gifts for Women, Gifts for Wife, White Elephant Gifts

What makes it special
an oversized 70 x 60 inch wearable blanket with pocket sleeves and arm holes

See it in someone's hands

Chocolove Coffee Crunch Dark Chocolate Bars | 55% Cocoa | Crunchy Coffee Bean Bits | Smooth & Sweet | Premium Dark Chocolate | Non GMO, Rainforest Alliance Certified, 3.2oz Bar (12 Pack)

Chocolove

Chocolove Coffee Crunch Dark Chocolate Bars | 55% Cocoa | Crunchy Coffee Bean Bits | Smooth & Sweet | Premium Dark Chocolate | Non GMO, Rainforest Alliance Certified, 3.2oz Bar (12 Pack)

What makes it special
semisweet dark chocolate bars with crunchy roasted coffee bean bits, 55% cocoa

See it in someone's hands

KaBloom - 10 Fresh Purple Orchid Bouquet-With Vase| Prime Delivery | Fresh Purple Orchid Bouquet|Fall Flowers|Gift for Birthday, Surprise, Anniversary, Wedding, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day

KaBloom

KaBloom - 10 Fresh Purple Orchid Bouquet-With Vase| Prime Delivery | Fresh Purple Orchid Bouquet|Fall Flowers|Gift for Birthday, Surprise, Anniversary, Wedding, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day

What makes it special
ten purple orchids delivered in bud form in their own vase, arranged and ready to display

Not quite right?