Books
For the most part, I view sending out holiday cards as just another time-sucking requirement of the season. Maybe you're like me, and by the time you've posted a veritable ton of traditional updates and thanks to your family members and professional contacts, you're too tired to send more than a barebones "Merry Xmas" text to everyone else. But i'm pretty sure I've found the perfect way to get myself pumped up to send some season's greetings to all of the important people in my life this year, and I think you, fellow bookish person, will agree: the literary holiday card.
All of the cards below have some sort of theme connected to books, writing or something else decidedly literary in style, so they're not only perfect for all of your book-loving pals, they'll be a beautiful addition to pretty much anyone's mantle. You can choose between individual cards, so you have the freedom to mix and match the idea cards for everyone on your list, and box sets that allow you to get the most bang for your buck. There are also Christmas cards scattered among those with more general winter or holiday themes, for a collection that is as diverse as the people you love.
For All The 'Game Of Thrones' Superfans You Group Text Recap Every Episode With
Let It Snow Game of Thrones Holiday Card, $6, Paper Source
Because nothing says holly jolly like vengeance, treachery and dragons, am I right?
For Your Friend Who Never Misses Those Classic Christmas Cartoons
Hallmark 24-Count Assorted Grinch Boxed Holiday Cards, $8, Kohl's
Chances are you know more than one person who is already checking the 25 Days of Christmas schedule in early November, planning out their festive viewing, and this classic Dr. Seuss card will appeal to all of them.
For Bringing Some Holiday Magic To Your Favorite Muggles
Harry Potter Christmas Card, $4, Etsy
Because Harry Potter is always appropriate for any occasion. Any Christmas-celebrating Muggle will feel as good as belly full of firewhiskey when they get this perfectly festive mail.
For All Of Those Holiday Traditionalists On Your List
Dickens Christmas Card, $6, Etsy
For some, nothing says holiday quite like sitting down to watch an old black-and-white version of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Honor those festive traditions with this beautiful handmade card.
For That One Person In Your Life Who Loves Books More Than Anything Else
Bookish Christmas Tree Card, $3, Redbubble
If you've got a friend or family member who loves books just as much as you do, no card could be more perfect than this stack of green tomes in the shape of a Christmas tree... trust me.
For Your Non-Denominational Friends And Family
Thinking Of You Notecards, $19, Chronicle
If you're looking for cards that don't scream "holidays," but you still want to let someone know you're thinking of them this season, these cards are pitch-perfect. From the illustrator of the popular New York Times Modern Love column, you'll find lots of pretty, wintry picks perfect for sending affection to absolutely everyone.
For Your Family Member Who Always Peeks At The Presents Under The Tree Before Christmas Morning
Sherlock Holmes Christmas Card, $3, Etsy
This adorable festive image of 221B Baker Street is tailor-made for your favorite holiday sleuth or just a lover of all things British.
For The Person Who Does Everything Minimally, Even The Holidays
The Gift of the Magi Card, $6, Obvious State
O. Henry's The Gift of the Magi is one of the most beloved and widely read holiday tales, and this card pays homage to the moving story with a gorgeous minimalist, cream-colored card. In a sea of glitter, greens, and reds, your friend with less flashy taste will love to display this in their carefully curated home.
For All Of The Fabulous Feminists You Brunch, And March, With
Bad Girls Throughout History Notes, $15, Chronicle
The holidays can inspire you to send notes of love and gratitude whether you celebrate or not. So for all those feminist pals in your life who have helped see you through 2017 with more gumption and hope than you ever believed you could muster, a card featuring Maya Angelou, Jane Austen (or eight of the non-literary icons in this box of 20) seems like just the thing.
For Anyone Expecting To Find Lots Of Books Under The Tree
Box of 10 'A Year Of Good Reading' Cards, $16, The Reader's Catalog
Bookish people tend to hang out with lots of other bookish people, and you can knock out all of the bibliophiles on your list with these gorgeous vintage cards that promise and year of good cheer, and good reading, ahead.
For Anyone Who Is More Than Ready To Wish 2017 Farewell
Box of 6 Shakespeare 'Glad New Year' Cards, $20, The Reader's Catalog
And for those of us who eschew Christmas cards in favor of New Year's tidings, these elegant and intricate Shakespeare cards are ideal. With a hopeful quote from All's Well That Ends Well, it will be hard to open this card and not to feel glad for a fresh new start come January.
