With the holidays rapidly approaching, I wanted to steal an idea I’ve seen on other websites and put together a few gift ideas that I think are pretty great to give and receive. Since I already have recommendation posts for albums, movies, tv shows, books, software, podcasts, blogs, audio-equipment, and random miscellaneous tech and around the house items, this list is focused mostly on things not included in those posts and more geared toward things I’ve come across in the past year or so that I think are worth checking out and that I think would make good gifts. As always, I only recommend things I’ve personally used and loved.
I used my Amazon affiliate link when the product showed up there, which gives our website a slight percentage back if you make a purchase, and therefore helps fund our continued existence. I hope you’ll find something cool, and feel free to drop your own recommendations in the comments.
Under $10
Ready Player One by Earnest Cline
This was one of my favorite reads over the past year. Find yourself lost in a sci-fi world of video games, 80’s references, and interesting characters.
King Ice Cube Trays
These giant ice cube trays make giant ice cubes. They’re perfect for cocktails where you don’t want the ice to melt too fast.
Rebel Logo Mug
Join the rebellion.
Under $25
Tranny: Confessions of Punk Rock’s Most Infamous Anarchist Sellout by Laura Jane Grace
The memoir by the lead singer of Against Me! is pretty much a must read for any fan of the band, but it’s the personal story that Laura (with help from Dan Ozzi) weave throughout the pages that made it one I couldn’t put down.
Hyperbole and a Half: Unfortunate Situations, Flawed Coping Mechanisms, Mayhem, and Other Things That Happened by Allie Brosh
This is one of my favorite books to gift to friends. It’s at times hilarious, witty, sad, and deeply introspective.
Sing Street
This is one of my favorite movies of the year and the combination of a coming of age story mixed with musical ambition is one that should resonate with just about everyone. I contend that “Drive It Like You Stole It” could be a smash single.
Dominion
This is a tactical card game for 2-4 players that combines just enough nerdery with fun game play.
Star Wars: Destiny
This new card and dice game seems to be sold out most places at the moment, but if you can find it, grab it. It’s awesome.
Shake: A New Perspective on Cocktails
We’ve made a lot of the drinks in this book over the past two years and have rarely been let down.
Under $50
Fenix LD12 Flashlight
The Fenix LD12 is a great little flashlight to have in your bedside drawer or close at reach in case of emergency.
Aeropress
I still think the Aeropress is the best way to brew a great cup of coffee. I use it every morning.
Under $100
Hawkeye by Matt Fraction & David Aja Omnibus
This graphic novel series is one of the best I’ve read in years. This hardcover collection brings everything together in one set, and damn, it looks awesome.
The Making of Star Wars by J.W. Rinzler
These books are big, detailed, kinda spendy, but absolutely a must own for any Star Wars fan. They’re full of photos and information that I’ve never seen anywhere else. I have the first one sitting on my coffee table and I still find myself reading through it just to marvel at how great it is.
Any Amount
Ask your friends and family to donate to the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, The Trevor Project, or other non-profit of your choice.