Books that are perfect gifts

Searching for the perfect Christmas gift? How about a book?

Three Hours From…

This is the perfect read for anybody in your life who loves to travel. Lonely Planet has compiled 894 amazing quick trips from favourite cities around the world. And these aren’t just any trips, but super cool, easy getaways divided into one hour, two hours or three hours away from those cities. Some of the suggestions you may have heard about, but many will be totally new. Pick it up and become a traveller, not a tourist.

Singapore Shophouse Walks

With stunning photos, this is more than just a pretty coffee table book. The pages take you on a treasure hunt through Joo Chiat, Katong and Geylang, telling the stories of the brightly-hued shophouses in those areas. This gift is perfect for the holidays and would also make a brilliant leaving gift for friends repatriating or moving onto other assignments. Available from Emporer’s Attic.

Blood and Bandages – Fighting for life in the RAMC Field Ambulance 1940- 1946

A personal and moving memoir written by Singapore-based Elizabeth Coward. Buy it here

Singapore Colonial Style

A stunning hardcover book showcasing the interiors of iconic colonial buildings in Singapore. Buy it here

West: The American Cowboy

For a taste of something other than Asia, pick up this jaw-dropping book. Award-winning photographer Anouk Masson Krantz travelled to ranches, rodeo communities and private homes across the US, capturing a dying way of life. His awe-inspiring images pay tribute to the pioneering spirit of the American West that honours honesty, integrity, loyalty, work ethic and dedication to family.

Lost in Singapore

A fascinating story of a boy who got lost and through his adventures realised Singapore is a great place in which to get lost. Buy it here

A Warm Christmas

Any kid living on the Little Red Dot will totally relate to this book. It’s the story of Jack, who lives in a very hot place, always wishing for a snow-covered holiday. One year, Jack gets his snowy wish, but realises it’s not quite all he’d hoped. It turns out that a warm Christmas is exactly what he loves most. The book was written by an author living right here in Singapore. Wonder where she got the idea?

Singapore Snowflakes

Also written and illustrated right here in Singapore, Singapore Snowflakes is the story of Jack and Milly who wake up to a snow-covered Lion City. An elf then takes them on a magical adventure that includes ice skating in the Marina Bay and skiing in the Gardens by the Bay. It’s a great chuckle for little ones living here. Available for sale on the Expat Living website (expatliving.sg/shop)!

Adorable Cake Figurines

A fun step-by-step book on making the cutest fondant cake toppers by Singapore-based Enkhtur Maini. Buy it here

Looking for more on the festive season?

Gorgeous Christmas gift ideas for kids
How to host an easy Christmas party

This article first appeared in the December 2019 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase a copy or subscribe so you never miss an issue!

Melinda Murphy

Melinda does Special Projects for Expat Living which includes pulling together big stories, videos — all sorts of cool stuff. It all builds on her background as a television correspondent, producer and author back in the US. Her life is kind of a special project, too, with two young kids, an old dog, a ridiculous number of volunteer activities — and a very understanding hubby.