There is nothing like getting your hands on a nice new book, and books as special occasion gifts are always a nice touch and surprise for any book lover.

This year I have made a nice little selection for different family members and why not myself, as well!

For Yours Truly and any mythology fan

I am an avid mythology reader and have been ever since I got my hands on a Greek mythology book about thirty-some years ago.

Since then, I have read many different mythology books from different cultures, and I am always looking to get my hands on new ones.

This year, I am rewarding myself with An Encyclopedia of Tolkien: The History of Mythology That Inspired Tolkien’s World by David Day.

This leather-bound hardcover book (with a price tag of $24.99) is a 544-page comprehensive, illustrated guide to the history, lands, and inhabitants of Middle-earth.

Why This Book?

Any J. R. R. Tolkien fan knows that Tolkien created a complete fantasy world, including Middle-earth with its many people, cities, and creatures. His world intertwines a history that spans thousands of years.

This book would make an amazing gift for anyone already following J. R. R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth stories. It’s a must-have for any new fan who wants to have a better understanding of the Middle-earth and the different characters.

Sections of this A-to-Z encyclopedia are devoted to the discussion of the battles, history, beasts, and heroes of Tolkien’s stories, and each section is accompanied by black-and-white illustrations.

This comprehensive volume on Tolkien’s world also includes an appendix of three primary legends that served as sources for Tolkien’s creations: the Volsunga Saga, the Nibelungenlied, and Richard Wagner’s Ring Cycle.

For the Little Ones

Another hardcover book of equally beloved characters for a bit younger audience is Disney Stories for 2-Year-Olds. It’s 192 pages filled with a compilation of fourteen stories with short, simplified text and bright illustrations, which makes it just perfect for children to follow along.

It’s a wonderful way for parents to spark the younger ones’ love of books. I mean, who’s better than Mickey and friends at getting kids excited about books?