The Best Gifts for Kids Who Love to Read (That Aren’t Books)

I don't care if they're reading Captain Underpants or unofficial Minecraft fan fiction—I'm just happy my boys love books. I want them to keep up their interest, so I'm always on the lookout for gifts that will nurture their interest in the written word. If you want to cultivate a young reader, too, here are some items that can help right in time for the holidays.

Lantern book night light

My boys received book night lights last year because they love reading into the night, but my youngest son got a little too rough with his and broke it within a week of receiving it. The durability of this lantern, along with its soft sunset mode, makes it an attractive replacement for the one he mangled.

Moonlite storytime mini projector

Give your bedtime stories a visual element with these reels that project words and images using the flashlight from your smartphone, allowing you and your kids to read along. There's even an app that adds sound effects to the experience. This package has four stories based on Pixar movies, but you can also pick up tried and true classics like Goodnight Moon and The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Mo Willems book tote bag

Making my way from my local library to my car is an exercise in dexterity as I usually carry a multitude of books of varying shapes and sizes that my sons checked out. I won't have to worry about that with this fabulous tote bag featuring a trio of beloved characters created by author and illustrator Mo Willems, sure to make the holder the cool parent in any social situation.

Dog Man plush

If you know anyone under 9, you're undoubtedly aware that author Dav Pilkey's Dog Man graphic novel series, a spin-off from his Captain Underpants books, is beloved by young readers. (It's rumored there's even a movie in the works.) Now your kids can bring the adventures of the part canine, part man police officer to life with this adorable plush.

Pete the Cat: The Missing Cupcakes board game

Your preschoolers don't have to be readers to play this board game based on one of the many books by Kimberly and James Dean featuring the titular blue cat. Players have to sing, match items, and perform activities to locate the delectable deserts Grumpy Toad stole. The game changes each time, making it the perfect addition for your family game night.

StoryCaptain subscription service

Not sure of what to read to your little bookworm? Let StoryCaptain help you find your child's new favorite story. Each month, you receive two to three picture books curated by parents and teachers, an activity guide, and other fun freebies revolving around a theme suited for your child's age, filling their shelf with an eclectic library of stories.

Rainbow Scratch bookmarks

Work both sides of your child's brain with this set of bookmarks they can craft themselves. All they have to do is use the wooden stylus to reveal the rainbow colors underneath and design it however they choose. Adult readers can use these as party favors for their book club's holiday party.

Wonderbly

We've all gotten lost in a story on occasion, but when you open a Wonderbly book, you'll have to find yourself. It's a personalized Where's Waldo where your child's name is on the cover, and their avatar is the missing character. Let the search begin!

Highlights magazine subscription

Kids don't have to wait for their next visit to the pediatrician to read Highlights. Each issue has incredible articles about the world, plus cool craft ideas, puzzles, and coloring pages to keep them occupied for hours.

Reading Rainbow T-shirt

Maybe the way to get our kids excited to read is to share what got us into books. Many parents found their love of reading through the beloved LeVar Burton-hosted PBS show, so getting this shirt for yourself might also foster a love of reading in your child. Just tell yourself that when you add it to your cart.

Reading socks

When your kids slip these socks on, you'll get the message loud and clear: They're reading, so now is not the time to do chores.

Book page holder

This item is one of those simple but convenient items you wish were around when you cracked open that copy of The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe for the first time. For that segment of readers who like to read with one hand, you place this on your thumb, and it keeps the book wide open. It also comes in handy for parents when they want to show the illustrations to children as they read or when older kids are trying to follow the lines in chapter books.

Reading journal

Your little reader can keep track of the books they've read, create their book wish list, write down their favorite literary quotes, review what they've read, or keep track of their library loans with this colorful journal. There are also editions for teens and parents.

Reading pillow

No one will want to read if it gives them a crick in the neck. This comfortably cushioned bed wedge will give your young reader the support they need anywhere they want to crack open the latest Wings of Fire book, whether it's on the couch or the living room floor. It also comes in various colors and designs, so your kid is bound to find something that suits them.