Beautiful books that make unforgettable gifts
It’s a truth universally acknowledged that book lovers can never resist a beautiful book.
Whether it’s a clothbound classic, a stunning cookbook, or a children’s story brought to life through illustration, these are the most beautiful books to gift a friend this Christmas – or keep for yourself. From standout hardbacks to intricate covers, this list celebrates books that look just as good as they read.
The Penguin Modern Classics Book by Henry Eliot (2021)
For over half a century, Penguin Modern Classics have sought out and published some of the world’s best books, helping to define the ever-evolving word “literature” through the words of authors “from Achebe and Adonis to Zamyatin and Zweig”. The Penguin Modern Classics Book, curated by Henry Eliot, is an “essential guide to 20th-century literature from around the world”, full of lists, synopses, context and more – and beautifully clothbound, to boot.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most beautiful books to give as gifts?
From illustrated classics to special-edition hardbacks, beautiful books make memorable gifts for adults and children alike. Look for classic titles with clothbound covers – like Little Women from the Clothbound Classics series – or illustrated stories with a heartwarming tale like Always Remember by Charlie Mackesy.
What are the most visually stunning books?
Some books are so beautifully made they feel like works of art – designed to be treasured, not just read. Gemini and Mercury Remastered by Andy Saunders captures the wonder of early space exploration in breathtaking photographic detail, making it a standout choice for those interested in space and history. For something timeless, The Great Gatsby (Vintage Collector’s Classics) dazzles with its gilded edges and art‑deco design, while The Perimeter by Quintin Lake transforms a 10,000‑mile walk around Britain into a visual masterpiece.