“Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents” is the opening line of Little Women. Jo and her sisters do end up having a memorable Christmas Day, and each gets a copy of The Pilgrim’s Progress from their mother. Christmas, of course, is not just about gifts, but it has to be said that Christmas presents do add a certain something to the day. Why not start your Christmas shopping this month and give the best gift of all – a book!
My book Brief Encounters: Literary Travellers in Australia is back in print, and a signed copy makes a thoughtful gift for anyone interested in Australian history and the impressions of those who visited our shores. Then, of course, there is my Great Writers & the Cats Who Owned Them, along with the fabulous cat tea towel, both of which make the purr-fect gift for anyone who loves cats and history. I am currently busy working on Great Writers & the Dogs Who Loved Them, but you’ll have to wait a bit longer to buy that one.
A book makes a wonderful gift, and this November and December, every book ordered from my website comes with something extra: an exclusive invitation for you and your gift recipient to join me for a free Zoom gathering on Wednesday 3 February 2027.
I’ll share stories from my unusual life as a writer, lecturer and literary tour leader, including how I came to write books, what it was like when I first arrived in Australia and how I became a book addict. I’ll also share stories and photographs of the cats who have owned me, including the one currently in charge. There’ll be plenty of time for your questions, and I’d love to hear about your favourite authors, cat books and reading journeys. This will be an informal get-together, with a chance for us all to discuss that most wonderful of all topics – books!
If you’re looking for a gift for someone who’s tricky to buy for, my books bring to life fascinating stories of writers: those who travelled to Australia and those who shared their homes with cats. And with a special invitation for you both to join me on Zoom, there’s something you enjoy together, too.
And please consider giving books to the children and grandchildren in your life. The habit of reading cannot be started too soon, and book shops badly need support or we will lose them. When Christmas shopping, do go into your nearest book shop, have fun browsing, ask for advice, and buy the little people you love a book that might just be the very book that starts them off on a lifetime of pure joy – the life of a reader.
Do you give books as gifts? Please tell me in a comment.
Selected links for relevant websites, books, movies, videos, and more. Some of these links lead to protected content on this website, learn more about that here.
Brief Encounters: Literary Travellers in Australia 1836-1939 by Susannah Fullerton
Great Writers & the Cats Who Owned Them by Susannah Fullerton
Susannah Fullerton: First volume of Little Women is published
Susannah Fullerton: The Pilgrim’s Progress is first published
Susannah Fullerton: Babies Need Books