More Than Books

We spend a lot of time highlighting all of the wonderful books that our favorite publishers put out but they also have many other products (like the amazing Penguin Postcards that I highlighted on Monday). I thought I would highlight just a few other items today that we have loved or desired.

Chronicle Books has a large collection of items from artist Taro Gomi (of Everyone Poops fame). One that Z got for Christmas is Taro Gomi's Play All Day. There are 128 pages on cardstock that are all punch-outs. There are finger puppets, games, animal playsets and more. The bright colors and simple drawings will appeal to kids of all ages. Younger children will need help because there are some narrower portions that need punching out but as long as they are a little careful, they will get hours of fun out of this one. This would even be a perfect book to surprise a child with on a road trip or plane trip.

Other things at Chronicle Books that have caught our eye are Curiosities: Vintage-Inspired Adornments for Gifts and Correspondence, The Sock Monkey & Friends Kit and the Pictoral Webster's Wall Cards.

Ammo Books has a fantastic memory game featuring the Russian circus and nature-themed art of Patrick Hruby. There are 36 pairs of 2"x2" cardboard squares that could be a simple game for a three year old (using just a few sets of cards) to fun for eight or nine year olds on a rainy afternoon. I love the opportunity to explore a new artist with Z and memory is always a fun game.

Other things we think others would enjoy from Ammo Books are Kid Made Modern by Todd Oldham and the Charley Harper Wooden Peg Puzzle.

And publishers aren't the only ones who provide great gift or personal splurge items. Many independent book stores have merchandise for sale that features their logo. One of my favorite current possessions is my Powell's pint glass. I don't drink beer but it's the perfect size for a nice big tea latte. I would love to collect the other three colors that they offer.

Powell's also has a Literature-themed Nalgene bottle, adorable bookish onesies for babies and, of course, t-shirts.

So, next time you need to give a gift but aren't sure what book to choose and don't want to give a giftcard, you can still support your favorite publisher or indie bookstore with a great gift!

Thinking giving and receiving are both good,
K and Z