The Ultimate Etsy Gift Guide for Literally Everyone on Your List

floral phone case for The Ultimate Etsy Gift Guidefloral phone case for The Ultimate Etsy Gift Guide

Etsy is perfect for creative-minded individuals with a flair for the eclectic and an undeniable love of pop culture. Our love affair with this site began back when we discovered it could be the answer to all of our holiday needs, but what we love most about Etsy is that there's a little something for even the trickiest peeps on your list. DIY-obsessed bestie? Check! Eccentric recipients (or the just plain weird and unexpected recipient)? Double check! And how about gifts guaranteed to crank the fun, smiles, and merriment to the max? You betcha. Check out these 27 holiday finds that will quench all your holiday shopping needs without ever leaving Etsy.

DIY Embroidery Kit ($16)

Chances are you've got an artsy friend who would love to have this feminine (and crafty) piece, but we won't blame you for keeping it yourself. The kit comes with a pre-printed pattern, embroidery needles, thread, and a guide for a truly hands-on experience.

Unicorn Frappuccino Bath Bomb ($7)

We know how great a bubble bath feels in the winter, and all we're saying is that these unicorn frappe bath bombs would make for the most magical bath, like, ever. Attach a Starbucks gift card for a themed-gift that they'll love.

Personalized Coffee Mug ($8)

Since you can add custom quotes on this mug, that makes it the perfect gift for your closest BFF. Up to five lines of text and three fonts mean you can add your favorite inside joke or movie quote.

Taylor Swift Record Player Car Air Freshener ($13)

Not only will these mini records make your Swiftie friends' car smell nice, but they're the perfect addition to any car that already has all of Taylor's CDs inside. They'll make their car smell great without alcohol or toxins.

Diamond Chocolates Chocolate Diamond ($32)

Who cares about "If you like me then you should have put a ring on it" when you can munch on one of the most delicious rocks of all time? (Not us. At least, not when there's chocolate around.)

Paris Scenery Tapestry ($70)

Wall tapestries rock because they brighten up spaces without having to deal with a paint job. We love that this one transports you to Paris, and if you've got a pal who's just moved or has naked white walls, you can't go wrong with this colorful pick.

"The Breakfast Club" Pencil Set ($10)

Any writer, pop culture nerd, or John Hughes fan will get a kick out of this themed pencil set, but they can also choose from Jane Austen, book lovers, Friends, and Elf.

Death Star Silicone Ice Cube Mold ($5)

Why yes, we would like Star Wars-themed ice cubes in our sparkling Champagne punch glasses. This gift is amazing and a total must-have for when NYE rolls around.

Japanese-style Ceramic Spoon ($9)

Do you know someone who loves collecting unique, handmade items? Or whipping up delectable treats in the kitchen? So do we! And we're pretty sure they'll adore these galaxy-esque kitchen staples.

Creative Smiley Face Socks ($4)

Not only will these socks keep your toes warm but they'll put you in a good mood too. Get a couple pairs in their favorite color or grab one in every shade.

Personalized Peaches Stationery ($25)

We could all benefit from a friendly reminder to keep up on our correspondences, and this personalized stationery set will more than do the trick. Don't forget to check your mail for the adorable cards to come in return!

Luna Lovegood Tote Bag ($14)

Because we love Harry Potter. And we love tote bags. Cute, functional, and magical FTW.

Cat Unisex Cotton Blend Pajama Bottoms ($26)

Imagine this: you get home from a night out, take your hair down, take your makeup off, and put on...uncomfy pajama pants. The worst! That's exactly why you should get your friend these comfy cat pajama pants instead.

Cat Massage Comb Self Groomer ($8)

Um, yes. Cats will love you for it, and it will give any living space a pet-approved upgrade. Meow!

Fun Heart Sunglasses ($7)

Seeing the world through rose-colored glasses just got a whole new meaning. Whether you prefer neutrals or have clothing in every color of the rainbow, these are the perfect addition to any wardrobe.

Personalized Wooden Recipe Book ($32)

For the cook in your life: an artsy, personalized design and the homemade feel of the wooden engraving. We approve wholeheartedly.

Custom LED Music Plaque ($20)

Any music lover will appreciate this way cute and functional album plaque. Remind your sister of that concert she finally got to go to, your spouse of your first dance song, or your best friend of your favorite song in middle school.

Talk Crypto To Me T-Shirt ($20)

Pair this tee with your go-to pair of jeans and cardigan to grab coffee or tuck into sweatpants for a lazy Saturday. Rock with your favorite necklace and red lip.

Larry David Curb Your Enthusiasm Earrings ($14)

Chances are, if you recognize these Curb Your Enthusiasm-inspired Larry David earrings, you already love them. If not, ehh.

Twisted Twee Ltd. Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn Underwear Gift Set ($49)

Seriously, please get these hilarious his-and-hers undies for your favorite pair of newlyweds. This cultured gift might be a bit of a gag, but it'll bring a smile to everyone's faces.

Fight Like A Girl Stickers ($4)

These stickers make a great small gift, a Christmas card add-on, and a laptop decoration. Consider this the perfect opportunity for them to take their favorite gal with them wherever they go.

Rose Quartz Coasters ($15)

We're drooling over these gold-trimmed agate coasters. If you'd rather DIY a pair of the hostess's favorites, be our guest, but the rest of us can simply add them to our carts on Etsy. Woop, woop!

Custom Name Birthstone Double Layer Necklace ($26)

These beautiful layered necklace lends an instant upgrade to any fashionista's usual jewelry. In other words, this is a must-have accessory for the queen of style in your life. This is also a great name for anyone whose name is always misspelled!

Pour Over Coffee Set ($15)

There's not a coffee-drinking hipster in the entire world who wouldn't go bananas for this cool, vintage-style coffee pour over. We're digging the over-caffeinated, uber-colorful vibes.

One of a Kind Guided Journal: A Guided Journal for Celebrating All That You Are ($16)

First thing's first: We love that adorbs color scheme. We love the acknowledgment that we are all worth celebrating, and your friend will love it too!

A-List Greek Designs Personalized Tassel Keychain ($17)

A personalized keychain with a colorful and trendy tassel to go with it? This baby is an obvious yes.

Pressed Dried Flower Phone Case ($13)

For the friend who loves pretty and useful gifts, consider a phone case that'll add some pretty floral detailing to her phone.

Did we leave anyone off your list? Let us know your go-to Etsy picks on Pinterest and check out our email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

Finding gifts for the person you're closest to can be the absolute hardest thing to do, especially when there are so many things that would make great gifts for him. If you're shopping for the main man in your life this season – whether you call him your dad, husband, fiancé, boyfriend, partner, or your preferred pet names – of course you want to find a gift that shows him just how much he means to you. Just remember that the key to the perfect gift is simply that it comes from you. These stunning gift ideas will help you say "this made me think of you."

Our 50 favorite gifts for men for 2024:

Target

Epson EpiqVision Mini EF22 Portable Smart Laser Projector

Make movie nights even more epic with this mini portable projector. The Dolby audio sound is AMAZING and the full HDR picture quality is perfect, plus you can project as big as a 150-inch screen! Watch his (and your) favorite movies, shows, sporting events, Oscars?, gaming, and more anywhere, indoors and out. It comes with a Google TV setup with access to more 10,000 apps, including favorites like Netflix and Prime. It's super simple to set up and a great way to bring in a screen wherever you want. No additional supplies needed! Also it comes in a bunch of cool colors. This is a splurge gift that's totally worth it and will make cozy nights at home even cozier. We love it!

Amazon

RVCA Commonwealth Snapback

This flat-brimmed baseball cap replaces those older, worn-out styles you know your man has been hoarding. The green corduroy fabric on this gift-worthy hat will grace his head perfectly for every season!

Apple Watch SE

Get him motivated to reach his fitness goals with features like fitness tracking and heart rate monitoring, plus he can send a text, take a call, listen to his favorite music and podcasts. You can customize the watch faces and bands to his liking too. It's the perfect gift for the active guy!

Amazon

Every Man Jack Mens Amber + Sandalwood Body Set

This gift set is filled with an ideal assortment of gifts for him. From body wash, shampoo, deodorant, and face wash, your man will have everything he needs to feel fresh – plus, having a good-smelling guy around is the real gift for you that keeps on giving.

Nike

Nike Air VaporMax Flyknit

Be his biggest cheerleader as he reaches his 2025 fitness goals in these best-selling Nikes, made with sustainable materials. We are loving this vintage green.

Target

VANKYO Leisure D30T Mini Wi-Fi Projector

Bring the cinema home to your movie buff with a sleek projector setup for your own private screenings and viewing parties!

Sunswell

Sunswell The R&R Pant

Made from recycled materials for rigorous wear, the Sunswell R&R pants are bound to be a staple in your man's year-round wardrobe.

Amazon

Cosori Pour Over Coffee Maker

This sturdy coffee maker will be a total hit for the caffeine-loving guy in your life. The layered stainless steel filter allows for a rich, creamy flavor in every sip, plus the decanter is holds a whole 34 ounces of brewed coffee to help him wake up!

Amazon

Stanley Stainless Steel Shot Glass and Flask Gift Set

This durable drinking set complete with a flask and shot glasses will be his new BFF for sharing on camping, fishing, or hunting trips. Top it all off with a brand-new bottle of whiskey to complete the gift for him.

Creem

Creem Magazine Subscription

For the music-loving man in your life, a subscription to Creem (the coolest rock 'n' roll mag) will really impress. The publication's covered plenty of classic names in the industry – as well as newer bands – so he's sure to soak up plenty of new knowledge about the scene. There's a handful of annual subscription tiers for the mag starting at just $79.

Amazon

Thermajohn Thermal Shirt

Whether he's hitting the slopes or is braving the cold winter weather to run errands with you, this warm thermal base layer tee will swarm his upper half in comfort, flexibly moving with his each and every move.

Herschel

Herschel Little America Backpack Pro

For his outdoor adventures or social gatherings, outfit him with a cool backpack (literally, this one is insulated) that he can fill with his favorite snacks and beverages.

Ties

Ties The Scientist Sock Pack

Whether it's a stocking stuffer or a smaller gift, a playful set of socks is both practical and personal.

Tie Bar

Tie Bar Navy Travel Tie Storage Case

This tie storage case means business, just like your man does. If he travels for work often, he'll appreciate that you're looking out for his formal-wear.

Amazon

Marlowe. Coffee Bar Soap

This manly bar soap is infused with coffee beans and cocoa butter butter that help tackle even the worst bouts of sweat and body odor. It's definitely long-lasting, too, so he can smell lovely all night long.

Taylor Stitch

Taylor Stitch The Workhorse Jacket

This jacket will hug his bod in the most stylish way, all while keeping him comfy throughout the season's cold weather.

Williams Sonoma

Breville Precision Brewer 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Glass Carafe

For the early risers and coffee-obsessed, a programmable coffee maker means he can wake up to the smell of coffee every day (and no longer has to use wasteful pods for an instant brew).

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Italian Leather Desk Set

Whether he's going to work, outfitting a permanent at-home office, or heading back to school, a personalized desk set like this luxe leather one will please the most studious types of guys.

Nordstrom

Ugg Beckett Fleece Robe

If your man loves a cozy night in just as much as you do, a soft robe to lounge around in will make the ultimate gift for him.

Mejuri

Mejuri Flat Curb Chain Necklace

Once you've reached long-term status with your guy, gift him a signature gold chain he can flex for years to come.

Pangaia

Pangaia 365 Heavyweight Hoodie

For the hoodie-obsessed, Pangaia's signature sustainable sweatshirts (and sweatsuits!) are best-in-class.

Etsy

Custom Soundwave Art Print

From a first dance song to the one you always blast together in the car, every guy has their favorite tune. Memorialize it for your music-loving man with this custom art print.

DUER

DUER Performance Relaxed Taper Denim Jeans

A good quality, fresh pair of denim is gonna set him (and his style) so right for the new year. These jeans feature a stretchy fabric that'll allow wear for practically any occasion.

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Leather Poker Set

Outfit his next game night with a poker set that's sure to impress and easy to bring on the go for weekend trips and group hangs.

New Balance

New Balance 9060 Sneaker

Secure your status as the greatest of all time by copping him that stylish pair of sneakers he's been eyeing.

Amazon

Polaroid Now 2nd Generation I-Type Instant Camera + Film Bundle

If your man is into photography and all things nostalgia, consider surprising him with a retro Polaroid camera set. We bet you'll be his favorite muse.

Manly Bands

Manly Bands The Forged Ring

This sleek wedding band stands up to tough, hands-on jobs with a carbon fiber construction, unlike traditional rings. The inner part is actually made from a Jack Daniel's whiskey barrel, making the perfect personalized touch for gifting the guy who loves a drink.

Uncommon Goods

New York Times Custom Football Book

This isn't just any coffee table book, but one that true sports buffs will actually want to devour – with clippings from his team's history, glory days, and highlights.

Still trying to figure out the perfect gifts for him? Subscribe to our email newsletter for more gift guides!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others and earn commissions, but we always offer genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated. Former reporting by Kaitlyn Ingram and Lauren Black.

Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner keep making headlines — and apparently Jen's boyfriend, John Miller, may not be too happy about it. A source spoke to Page Sixabout John's reaction to everything, and all signs point to potential trouble in paradise. After giving her an ultimatum, could this be the end of our recent Jen and Ben sightings? Here's what we know.

Scroll to find out what's going on with Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner, and John Miller...

A source recent spoke to Page Six, giving everyone a behind-the-scenes look at on what's really going on between Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner, and John Miller right now. While this trio isn't exactly in a love triangle, there are some complicated emotions flying at the moment.

The source explained that John "has always been supportive of Ben and Jen’s co-parenting relationship, but feels Ben crossed the line." This comes after the recent — and very cozy — paintball pictures of the ex-spouses.

“John knows there’s nothing going on between Jen and Ben," the source continued. "But he doesn’t think those photos are a good look and feels it’s disrespectful to their relationship.”

Apparently, John “gave Jen an ultimatum” recently, explaining that “he doesn’t want to see anything like that again or he has no choice but to walk away.” Yikes!

According to PEOPLE, Jennifer Garner and John Miller have been linked together since 2018 — with a brief break apart around 2021. However, a source told PEOPLE that Jen was "very happy" with John back in December, and that she "sees him almost every day," intimating that things were just fine between the couple.

Do you think these two will make it? Or will Ben actually find his way back in (another) Jen's good graces? Only time will tell I guess!

For more celebrity news, be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

Brit + Co doesn't play around when it comes to holiday parties(or any parties for that matter). But around these parts, ain't no party like a white elephant or Secret Santa party, because it's prime time for ridiculous gifts. From LED holiday flair to pocket manfriends (we'll explain), we've rounded up the ultimate buys for gift-swap domination. That's right — we're your one-stop shop for the absurd, the unusual, and the totally delightful.

Read on and prepare for a serious celebration of the random. Let's get into the best white elephant gifts!

Amazon

Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer's Guide

From the team that brings you all the bizarre travel stops in Atlas Obscura comes this guide to what to eat around the world filled with food adventures and edible wonders.

Amazon

Creature Cups Cat Stretch Ceramic Cup

There’s bound to be a cat lady who will make efforts to steal this precious mug.

Amazon

Cinema Light Box

Never stop dreaming of the perfect gift. This light box is totally customizable with 400 letters, symbols, and emojiis.

Etsy

Beer Soap 6-Pack Sample Set

For the beer lovers on your list, give ’em a brand new way to get their hopped up fix.

Etsy

Sloth Face Tote Bag

What’s cuter than a sloth face on a tote bag?

Urban Outfitters

Slip Silk Eye Mask

The gift of a good night's sleep is priceless.

Harry & David

Deluxe Pears, Apples, & Cheese Gift Set

Fall fruit with a cheesy mix is a white elephant gift we would happily accept.

Amazon

Dog Butt Magnets

Magnets, in dog butt form. Why not?

Amazon

Nevlers Inflatable Lounger

Love hanging out everywhere you go? This inflatable sofa makes a great white elephant gift. Have lungs, will travel.

Amazon

Campfire-Scented Solid Cologne

You know how your clothes smell after a weekend of camping? Now you can smell like that ALL the time.

Etsy

Custom Shaped Pet Pillow

Is your pup or cat so narcissistic it only wants to snuggle with itself? There's a custom pet pillow for that.

Amazon

The Mountain Fanny Pack Kittens T-Shirt

Kitties and a fanny pack. All in one shirt!

Amazon

Tipsy Elves Get Lit Light Up Ugly Christmas Sweater

Shine bright this holiday season with this battery-powered Christmas sweater that will help you literally get lit.

Etsy

Pocket Manfriend

Have a friend in need of a bearded companion? Get them a manfriend in pocket size – you can take him anywhere! Choose from 20 personalized guys.

Amazon

Star Wars Millennium Falcon Bottle Opener & Keychain

What better way to end a long day than with a tasty brew opened with this bottle opener from a galaxy far, far away?

Amazon

1-Pound Bag Cereal Marshmallows

Sprinkle them on whatever you like!

Amazon

Mariah Carey Merry Christmas Deluxe Edition Vinyl

Throw this classic holiday record on before your white elephant party ends!

Society6

Aley Wild Mood Cat Poster

We're digging this mood.

Amazon

SheaMoisture Beard Conditioning Oil

Decorative beards and mustaches are definitely here to stay, so give that guy in your life the products he needs to keep things tidy.

Amazon

Transparent Kitchen Safe

Protect your cookies from… people who apparently steal your cookies so often that you need a safe?

Homesick

Homesick Gone Hiking Candle

Give the gift of the outdoors with this soy-based candle.

Amazon

Bananagrams

A fun game really is the gift that keeps on giving.

Amazon

Groot Chia Pet

It's a Chia! It's a pet! It's a Chia Pet!

Amazon

Piece Pie Puzzle

This gift might make the recipient hungry and take days to complete, but it'll make for a good time.

Amazon

Sassy Animals Adult Coloring Book

Coloring + sassy animals = a white elephant win!

Amazon

Coffee Mug Warmer

Anything to do with coffee is sure to be a heart-warming gift.

Amazon

Gaolinci Cartoon Cow Slippers

These keep your feet warm and are super adorable.

Amazon

Shrek Mini Waffle Maker

This waffle maker delivers fresh (and funny) waffles every morning.

Amazon

Wonderful Wieners Playing Cards

You can never go wrong with a silly deck of cards.

Amazon

Tortilla Blanket

Turn your friends into giant human burritos!

Amazon

Pickle-Flavored Cotton Candy

Pickle lovers won't be able to get over this one.

What white elephant gifts are you gifting this year? Share with us @BritandCo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others and earn commissions, but we always offer genuine editorial recommendations

This article has been updated.

Target’s dress selection is already full of stylish gems, but a 25% off sale makes ‘em even better. Right now, Target’s running a deal where you can take 25% off dresses, denim, and shorts with Target Circle! Whether you’re looking for a breezy sundress for spring or a chic pick to wear to work, now’s the perfect time to grab a Target dress (or a few). With deals this good, these Target finds won’t stay in stock for long.

Scroll on for our 15 favorite Target dresses on sale right now!

Target

A New Day Tank Mini Shift Dress

This serene green dress is cut from a breezy cotton-blend canvas fabric that'll keep you feelin' and lookin' cool all season long.

Target

Universal Thread Midi A-Line Dress

Don't be afraid to embrace all things colorful this spring – this bright blue midi is just adorable! The smocked bodice enhances its flattering fit, plus, it comes with pockets on the side.

Target

Universal Thread Flutter Short Sleeve Mini Skater Dress

This fluttery mini is oh-so feminine and even boasts a lovely floral pattern to match all of your outdoor outings! It's fairly casual, so you could easily pair it with heels and sneakers alike.

Target

Wild Fable Drop Waist Mini Sundress

Butter yellow is one of the most perfect colors for springtime, and this $23 (was $30) Target dress makes rocking the shade easier than ever. The drop waist silhouette makes it even trendier!

Target

Wild Fable Lace Ruffle Maxi Bodycon Dress

Hello, ruffles! This dreamy maxi dress would make a prime pick for springtime date nights or happy hours.

Target

Universal Thread Bell Elbow Sleeve Mini A-Line Dress

This comfy dress is still undeniably flattering, even though it has a loose fit. The v-neckline and elbow-length sleeves are super elegant and add flair to each and every look you want to pull this spring! We'd style this number with some Mary Janes or ballet flats to complete the 'fit.

Target

Wild Fable Maxi Bodycon Dress

We can't resist a denim dress! This $27 (was $36) body-hugging moment would look so cute with platform sandals or even cowgirl boots, like pictured above. The structured design throughout helps shape your figure for such a flattering effect.

Target

Universal Thread Smocked Knit Maxi A-Line Dress

This easy-wearing knit dress features a soft and stretchy jersey fabric that'll feel like heaven once you put it on. The smocked bodice design helps break up your look and hugs your waist in all the right places.

Target

Wild Fable Mini Skater Dress

The backless halter moment on this mini lets you show some skin this spring – all while still feeling secure and looking flattering as can be. The mid-weight cotton material it's made of is blended with spandex to ensure wearing it all day long is comfortable.

Target

Universal Thread Western Shirtdress

With plenty of Western details within the buttons and front pockets, this stunning shirtdress will amp up your country-esque outfits with ease.

Target

A New Day Knit Mini Ballet Dress

Drawing inspiration from effortless ballerina fashion, this $11 (was $15) mini dress boasts a flattering squared neckline, all in a soft and stretchy jersey fabric that makes dressing up so delightful.

Target

A New Day Corset Midi A-Line Dress

Gingham is spring's BFF! Flaunt the trendy pattern this season with this adorable midi dress. The vertical seaming gives it a corset effect that's not restricting one bit – just shaping!

Target

Wild Fable Ruffle Sleeve Eyelet Mini A-Line Dress

This yellow mini with a sweetheart neckline with lace and adorable eyelet and bow accents is beautifully femme, gently accentuating your collarbone and waistline for a fit you'll instantly fall in love with.

Target

Universal Thread Corset Midi A-Line Dress

We adore the floral pattern on this blue baby. The dainty spaghetti straps feel so fit for spring, too!

Target

Wild Fable Drop Waist Mini Tennis Dress

Drop waist dresses are everything because they can help elongate your silhouette and flatter your waistline. This all-white number is cut from a lightweight fabric mixed with spandex, so it comes ready with a lil' bit of stretch for added comfort!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more editor-loved styles!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

The best part of english classes was discovering new authors because of assigned summer reading. I'd pretend to "complain," but I loved when my mom took me to the public library to find books I'd eventually cherish. From Maya Angelou's pivotal memoir to Barbara Kingsolver's assessment of one family's mission work, I learned women could be powerful wordsmiths.

As much as I love reading contemporary romance books or political thrillers that remind me of Paradise, the following novels are the ones I revisit when my TBR list is too overwhelming!

Read the instant-classic books that introduced me to the most iconic female authors of all time

Amazon

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice was the only book that challenged me because it's the true definition of a "slow burn" read. Between you and I, Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy are the blueprint for the love stories found in Bridgerton because their romance wasn't rushed. The familiar strangers-to-lovers troupe is there, but Jane Austen took her time showing the seeds of how things blossomed between them.

Amazon

Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie

What was supposed to be a luxurious train ride turns into murder when the wealthy Samuel Edward Ratchett is discovered dead during a terrible storm. The guests are bewildered because it appears no one could've accessed his door from the outside, but his fatal wounds indicate otherwise. Detective Hercule Poirot is sure one of the guests is feigning innocence, but he'll have to deduce who was skilled enough to commit an undetectable murder.

Amazon

The Color Purple by Alice Walker

I was introduced to the film version of The Color Purple when I was a little girl and it left a memorable imprint on my mind. Starring Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey, I believed they were Celie and Sofia for the longest. It's the reason why I devoured Alice Walker's book when I was old enough to read it. Mainly, the themes of sisterhood, sexism, racism, and love painted a vivid picture of life for Black women in the deep South. In their story, readers are sure to find something to relate to.

Amazon

White Teethby Zadie Smith

Zadie Smith's White Teeth outlines a friendship between two people from different backgrounds, showing how life isn't always confined to certain "rules." The things Archie Jones and Samad Iqbal found after fighting together in World War II have a profound effect on their friendship as well as their lives. From falling in love again to producing children who challenge the world around them, these two friends struggle to maintain a lease on the things they thought to be true.

Amazon

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou's I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings tells of her upbringing in the south with her brother Bailey. From witnessing the strength of their grandmother to experiencing terror at the hands of a "trusted" adult, Maya learns valuable lessons about tenacity, wit, and kindness at a young age. It's these very things that make her one of the greatest literary minds whose work I've been fortunate to read.

Amazon

To Kill a Mockingbirdby Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird broke me into pieces and stitched me back together after I read it for the first time. It's another book that touches on the limiting beliefs that the South is known for and its effect on those around them. Though beautiful, this region hasn't always been the kindest to Black people as evidenced by a one lawyer's determination to prove the innocence of a wrongly accused man.

Amazon

Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood

Margaret Atwood is known for writing dystopian books that paint a somewhat bleak picture of our future. In Oryx and Crake, readers are introduced to "Snowman" who ditched his former name Jimmy once a terrible tragedy changed the trajectory of the world around him. Not only is he alone as the last full being, he's also lost two people he loved dearly. The only thing that keeps Snowman going are Crake's children as he seeks to find the source of the greatest genetic breakdown known to mankind.

Amazon

The Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler

The Parable of the Sower follows Lauren Olamina as she goes from living a protected life to being unable to ignore the realities of those who aren't as fortunate as her. She witnesses how societal and socioeconomic changes affect others, not including the growing calls to pay attention to the climate. As scary as it is, Lauren decides to take a stand to help others and witnesses a rebirth that no one's able to ignore.

Amazon

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

I still remember watching Kerry Washington and Reese Witherspoon take on the characters found in Celeste Ng's Little Fires Everywhere during the height of the pandemic. It opened up conversations about motherhood and the choices women make that follow us even when we don't want them to. From confronting cover racism to realizing how a life unfulfilled leads to pushing children to live lives we've always wanted to, the world of Shaker Heights is taken for a wild ride when Mia Warren comes into town.

Amazon

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver

Last but not least, there's this incredible work of Barbara Kingsolver. I find myself revisiting The Poisonwood Bible because the themes of it feel more relevant than ever. From the blind faith of Baptist preacher Nathan Price to his wife finally finding her voice after their youngest daughter died, neither they or their children leave the Belgian Congo unscathed. Despite their best efforts to adapt, this family learns that their ignorance stemming from a domineering patriarchal household caused them to be chewed up and spit out. That sometimes there's more than one way to find God, love, and justice if we're willing to look.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more spring book finds!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.