I love to read books, but I really love to give books. They’re easy to wrap. They’re usually under $20. And they can be shared and reread for years to come. Here are some books that are worth getting for friends, family and yourself this Christmas.
Heavy Lifting: Grow Up, Get a Job, Raise a Family, and Other Manly Advice
By Jim Geraghty and Cam Edwards
I could write a book on the lack of manly men in the DC area. Oh wait, I did. It seems current men’s magazines focus on buying the right bourbon, the right suit, the right car, and the right set of knives. Jim and Cam’s book focuses on actions, not outward appearances and consumption. Both fathers and husbands, they talk about the importance of embracing responsibility and, ultimately, freedom. In his recent review, Kurt Schlichter wrote, “That’s why being a man – not merely bearing the physical accoutrements of maleness but actually being a man – is a rebel act. By being man, you reject the role the liberal elite has prepared for you, that of a weak, confused manchild unfit to be sovereign over your own destiny.”
Buy a copy for every millennial in your life.
How to Be Right: The Art of Being Persuasively Correct
By Greg Gutfeld
I could create an entire political philosophy based on the genius of Greg Gutfeld. Oh wait, I did. Gutfeld uses non-traditional ways to explain (Gutsplain?) liberty and free market principles that are palatable to a traditional audience, like Fox News viewers, as well as to those who are skeptical of conservatives and the political world in general. How to Be Right is a textbook for the movement, but a fun one that the author probably doesn’t mind when you add your own dirty drawings. Check out my recent podcast interview with Gutfeld here.
Almost Interesting
By David Spade
On my recent drive to Arizona, I listened to the audio version of David Spade’s new book. This is not the typical celebrity book that is clearly written by someone else. David is a comedian and writer first, a playboy second, and an actor third. I think he would be happy with that ranking. David is also not the typical celebrity. The stories about the competitive nature during his days at Saturday Night Live and a scary home invasion are refreshingly honest and eye-opening. The shout out to Allen Covert, one of my favorite guys in Hollywood, was also delightful.
Adios, America!
By Ann Coulter
Political books can be tricky to give as gifts. If you know someone is a fan of Ann and doesn’t have the book, it’s a no-brainer. However, if they’re on the fence (especially about 2016), why not go full Ann Coulter with Adios, America? Bonus: At least one family member will need to leave the room to find a safe space. More presents for you.
It’s Time to Sleep, My Love
Written by Eric Metaxas and illustrated by Nancy Tillman
Perhaps you’ve heard of the spoof version of this book with the NSFW title. It’s Time to Sleep, My Love is beautifully illustrated and written. For children, it’s a lullaby. For adults, it’s poetic.
“Your dreams will be arriving soon.
They’ll float to you in sleep’s balloon.”
Mad Men: The Complete Collection
This isn’t a book, but it’s among the best writing you’ll find in any medium. This set includes the entire season with commentary, as well as some fun items for Mad Men fans like two mid-century style tumblers. After all, “Christmas comes but once a year.”
The 52 Lists Project: A Year of Weekly Journaling Inspiration
By Moorea Seal
I love making lists, but I’m not a fan of journaling (or using that word as a verb). However, this book is great for stepping away from one’s hectic life and thinking about the things that make us grateful and happy.
The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Dinnertime
By Ree Drummond
Full disclosure: I don’t have this book, but it is on my Christmas wish list. I’m a big fan of Ree Drummond’s back-to-basics approach to life on the ranch. I have her other cookbooks and have had success with many of the recipes. Her step-by-step photos make her recipes accessible and easy. The photos of her cowboy husband and other ranchers aren’t bad either.
Merry Christmas, Breitbart readers!
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