If you're here, we probably agree that books make the best gifts. A lesser-known maxim is that all the other fun stuff in a bookstore works great in wrapping paper and bows, too. As we approach this season of gifting, we've asked our team of booksellers to weigh in with which books, puzzles, games, stationery, and more has caught their eyes this year. Browse through their picks for some inspiration while you fill out your holiday shopping list, or check our separate post on the best books of 2023 for more great ideas. Then, stop by and see us! We'll be ready with personal recommendations and on-the-house gift wrapping from the elves in our back room. Happy holidays!

Is it just us, or is there something about the autumn season that calls for long afternoons in the kitchen trying out new ingredients and perfecting favorite dishes? Here at the store, when a new cookbook catches our eye, we like to try a recipe or two and share it among our booksellers at our weekly staff meetings, which have been particularly tasty lately. Here, we've collected ten of our recent favorite cookbooks, each full of tasty recipes and mouthwatering pictures. Try one out for yourself as you design a menu for a family gathering, or have us wrap one up for the epicurean on your holiday list — it's the most delicious time of the year.

Can it be that the sun is setting on another year of reading? As the leaves turn—and as we all turn our heads to holiday gifts—our Blue Willow booksellers have curated a list of some of their favorite books of the year to recommend for you.

As always, we love to share personalized recommendations. Stop in and talk with us. We look forward to helping you find just what you're looking for.

Without further ado, we are very happy to present to you Blue Willow's Best Books of 2023!