'This extraordinary story never goes out of fashion': 30 authors on the books they give to everyone

[cbabe]

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/dec/13/this-extraordinary-story-never-goes-out-of-fashion-30-authors-on-the-books-they-give-to-everyone

‘This extraordinary story never goes out of fashion’: 30 authors on the books they give to everyone

Colm Tóibín, Robert Macfarlane, Elif Shafak, Michael Rosen and more share the novels, poetry and memoirs that make the perfect gift

Sat 13 Dec 2025 04.00 EST

… more …

(What’s on your list? Mine includes Wind in the Willows and Einstein’s Dreams by Alan Lightman. Best book without words: The Arrival by Shaun Tan.)

[sorcrow]

1. Ridley Walker

I recommend Ridley Walker by Russell Hoban to anyone who is a fan of languages or linguistics.



Best nearly wordless book, Good Dog, Carl.


Best Regards,
Sorghum Crow

[vanlassie]

2. Good Dog, Carl! ❤️❤️❤️

I had completely forgotten. I used to make up stories about Carl and the Baby for my kids and they laughed and laughed! Thanks for the memories!

[cbabe]

3. Riddley Walker sounds fascinating. Put on my

library list for purchase or inter library loan since it’s pretty old.

Good dog Carl. In my dreams.

[yellowdogintexas]

4. We give all new parents "The Elephant and the Bad Baby"

A funny picture book which teaches a little about saying "Please"