The Perfect Books for Non-Readers This Christmas

Blogmas Day 11

Christmas is just around the corner, and if you’re struggling to find the ideal gift for someone who’s not quite into reading, we’ve got you covered! Books might not always be the first thing you think of for non-readers, but with the right choice, they can be a wonderful, thoughtful present that introduces them to the world of literature without overwhelming them. Here are some books that are easy to pick up, visually engaging and full of intriguing stories – perfect for anyone who doesn’t normally consider themselves a reader.

Keep reading to the end for an exclusive discount, available until Christmas Eve!

Isle of Rust by Alex Boyd
If you’ve got someone who’s more into photography or nature, Isle of Rust could be the perfect gift. This beautifully crafted book won the accolade of being shortlisted for the Favourite Scottish Nature Photography Book at the Scottish Nature Photography Awards 2020. With stunning photography by Alex Boyd and eloquent writing by Jonathan Meades, the book transports you to the rugged landscapes of the Isle of Lewis and Harris.

It’s a work that balances stunning images with captivating reflections on the relationship between humanity and nature, capturing the beauty of decaying farm machinery, dramatic landscapes, and the life that continues despite the inevitable passage of time. For anyone who loves to marvel at the majesty of the natural world or reflect on our place in it, this is an excellent choice.

Letting Go: A Timeline of Tales by Gerda Stevenson
For those who prefer a collection of shorter stories, Letting Go is a brilliant option. With its twelve interconnected stories, Gerda Stevenson takes readers on a journey through landscapes, times and emotions. Ranging from the mid-19th century to the present, the characters in these stories come from all walks of life, and their experiences tie in themes of identity, creativity and the environment.

This is a perfect gift for someone who enjoys a good story without committing to a lengthy novel, and the different settings – from the Scottish Borders to South Africa and the Arctic – ensure there’s something to appeal to everyone.

Cool Scots by Greg Moodie
What better way to introduce someone to the fascinating and sometimes humorous side of Scottish history than with Cool Scots? Greg Moodie’s quirky book presents 42 Scots, past and present, who have helped shape the country’s cool factor, from poets and scientists to musicians and politicians. Each biography is accompanied by sketches that mix the traditional and modern, giving an often satirical take on their subjects.

It’s a fun, accessible read, with bite-sized entries and quirky illustrations, making it perfect for someone who’s never really been into reading, but enjoys a good laugh and a splash of culture. Plus, it’s a brilliant way to celebrate Scotland's unique contribution to the world.

Our Forth Bridge: Made From Girders by Barbara Henderson & Alan McCredie
Perfect for the non-reader who has a love for Scotland’s engineering marvels or local history, Our Forth Bridge brings to life the iconic structure that connects the country’s past and present. This book goes beyond the architecture itself to tell the stories of the people who work on, maintain, and live by the bridge. Whether it’s engineers, tour guides or campaigners, Barbara Henderson and Alan McCredie lift the veil on the human side of the Forth Bridge.

It’s a fascinating, visually rich account that appeals to both the curious and those who appreciate the beauty of everyday objects and human connection. A gift for the history lover or anyone with a penchant for local landmarks.

Scots We Ken by Julie Davidson
Julie Davidson’s Scots We Ken is a brilliant choice for anyone who enjoys a bit of wit, cheek and a look at the social types that make up Scotland’s character. Whether they’re a Whisky Bore or a Munrobagger, the book profiles well-known Scottish types with spot-on humour and charm.

 Accompanied by Bob Dewar’s playful illustrations, this book captures the unique personalities that define Scotland’s social fabric. It’s an ideal pick for the person who enjoys a good chuckle and doesn’t mind getting lost in a humorous, charming read.

Whether you’re gifting someone a visual journey through Scotland’s stunning landscapes, an insightful short story collection or a humorous take on Scottish personalities, these books are perfect for non-readers looking for something engaging but not overwhelming.

To thank you for joining us on this journey through our books, we’re delighted to offer a 10% discount on all the books mentioned in this post when you shop with us before midnight on Christmas Eve. Use the code BLOGMAS10 at checkout to claim your discount.

Wishing you a literary Christmas filled with stories to cherish and share.