Books for everyone

Whether or not you celebrate Christmas, here are my recommendations for book gifts. Lots of choices for children, because I'm always buying these sorts of books but don't often see recommendations on blogs like this. The links all lead to The Book Depository. Because I'm a bit cheesed off with Amazon right now, and we all need choices. The Book Depository has great discounts, free postage and a quick service. Happy shopping, and reading.

Mad Men: the illustrated world by Dyna Moe. Why? It has a cut-out and dress-up Joanie doll. Also a guide to dealing with the office emergency of a severed foot. For? Girlfriends, best friends, your gay husband, anyone you want to impress with your wit and vivacity.

Mr Chicken goes to Paris by Leigh Hobbs. Why? It's funny, smart and a bit bonkers. For? Toddlers, parents of toddlers who are counting the weeks until they can take their offspring abroad.

In my Patch by Sara Gillingham. Why? It's cute and tactile, with a finger-puppet mouse. For? Babies, new parents of babies.

Wash this blood clean from my hand by Fred Vargas. Why? It has the most adorable detective in the world, solving crimes that rely on intellect rather than viscera for their impact. For? Mothers-in-law, female friends, anyone who appreciates the finer things in crime.

Dogs don't do ballet by Anna Kemp. Why? It's mad as a box of squirrels. For? Five year old rebel rousers, parents of five year olds who are tired of the pinkness of ballet books.

The Small Hand by Susan Hill. Why? It's a beautiful looking book and an instant classic. For? Mothers, grandmothers.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: the Ugly Truth by Jeff Kinsey. Why? It's a mixture of cartoon and story, international bestseller and very cool. For? Nine year olds with an off-beat sense of humour, kids who moan about school - they'll soon see how good they've got it.

Hitchcock by Francois Truffaut. Why? It's a dialogue between two of the world's greatest directors, with storyboard-style stills from all the famous Hitchcock films. For? Fathers, brothers, film buffs of all ages.

Mr Gum and the Secret Hideout by Andy Stanton. Why? I defy anyone not to love these books. Wild, wacky and the best fun to read out loud. For? Kids that don't like reading, or being read to. They'll break through the barrier, I guarantee it.

Diary of a Wimpy Vampire by Tim Collins. Why? Because the undead have feelings too. For? Young teens who spend too much time in their rooms. At least this way you'll know what they're doing - reading this book.