Books

11 Literary Gifts For The Resistance Reader On Your List
by Kerri Jarema

Sure, 2017 might have been the year of resistance... but that doesn't mean we can all take a break in 2018. We can all hope that the seeds of resistance we planted this year will come to further fruition, yes, but there is still so much to fight for, so many voices to elevate, so many problems yet to solve. But while we take this time to celebrate the holiday season, our friends and family and the good things in our lives, it doesn't hurt to combine the holiday gift-giving time with a further call to future resistance.

Luckily, there are tons of cool gifts out there that combine a love of books and literature with social and political activism, for items that they won't only love to unwrap come Christmas morning, but ones they will actually use come 2018. Check out the list of 11 items below, from things to read, to things to wear, and even things to decorate with, all of which offer something empowering and inspirational. Whether they like to wear their resistance on their sleeve, or use their words and ideas to move forward, you'll find the perfect gift for every single resister on your list below.

An Angelou Inspired Tee That Gives Back To Women's Charities

Phenomenal Woman Tee, $35, Bulletin

Because you just can't have too many t-shirts, any resister on your list will love this one, inspired by the beloved Maya Angelou poem. The best part is that bulletin.co, a women-run site that only sells female-led brands, will give proceeds from this shirt's sales to seven different charities including Planned Parenthood and Girls Who Code.

A Guide To Impeachment That Will Be Sent To Every U.S. Law Maker

A Citizen's Guide to Impeachment, $7, Melville House

Barbara A. Radnofsky's book A Citizen's Guide to Impeachment is billed as a straightforward and non-partisan guide meant to teach the average person exactly what impeachment is, including the precise rules of the process and their application throughout the history of the United States. But Melville House is also encouraging readers to donate a copy of the book to be sent to legislators through their website, where you can also track who has received one.

A Pin That Proclaims The Magic Of Feminism Everytime They Wear It

Luna Lovegood Smash The Patriarchy Pin, $10, Gimme Flair

Luna Lovegood has long be a source of inspiration for readers everywhere, but this enamel pin takes it one step further by elevating her to a feminist, resistance icon. And it's really the perfect combination; because something tells me Luna would be front and center at every single march.

Put The Pre-Order Receipt For This Book In Their Stocking

How I Resist, $18, Amazon (Pre-Order)

Though How I Resist won't be out until March 2018, it is never too early to pre-order and support, and I promise that any resister who knows that they'll be getting this one in the mail come early next year will be thrilled. Featuring essays from a wide array of writers including author Jacqueline Woodson, Hamilton actor Javier Munoz and journalist Lauren Duca, this book promises to share stories of activism and hope for a new generation.

A T-Shirt That Is The Wearable Definition Of Reading Resistance

Punk Rock Authors T-Shirt, $22, Out of Print

Add a healthy dose of disobedience to their wardrobe with this punk rock reimagining of some of the world's most celebrated authors, from Jane Austen to Maya Angelou. The back of the shirt also features a quote from Oscar Wilde which reads, "It is through disobedience that progress has been made, through disobedience and through rebellion.” A little rebellion never looked so good.

A Book Box Subscription That Celebrates Marginalized Writers

Call Number: $45 for one box

There are tons of book boxes out there, but Call Number, the library-inspired monthly book subscription box that celebrates Black literature and authors will be the perfect fit for any resister. Created with the intention of promoting diversity through the literary works of authors from America, Africa, and the Caribbean, former boxes include books like Danzy Senna's New People and What We Lose by Zinzi Clemmons.

A Mug That Will Wake Them Up With A Little Resistance In Their Cup

Make America Read Again Mug, $13, The Strand

If they're among the group of people who truly believe that books can change the world, this mug will be the best part of their morning routine. Turning a hateful political message into one of hope, connection and education is one we can surely all get behind.

A Book Pouch That Will Protect Their Favorite Reads

Read Like A Girl Book Pouch, $30, Book Beau

If there is a reader on your list who loves to keep their books pristine, then they absolutely need a protective pouch from Book Beau. This design in particular is ideal for carrying whatever they're reading, complete with empowering message and pop-art style red lips...the best combo of practical chic.

A Beautiful Reminder To Champion Stories

Read, Write, Repeat Banner, $45, Rayo & Honey

Designed in collaboration with Rayo & Honey and author Nate Marshall, this handmade pendant will be a beautiful reminder to any reader and writer out there who wants to use stories to continue pushing forward with resistance, and elevating marginalized voices.