Gift guide: What to give Marshall anytime

Evidently, I’m a difficult person to buy presents for. On the good side, maybe I’m content, not wanting or needing anything else. I like to think that’s true. On the bad side, maybe I’m boring. It’s hard to pick presents for people who aren’t into anything interesting.

Either way, I’d like to solve this problem right here, right now. I know what it’s like trying to pick out gifts for someone who’s difficult. With all the holiday rush, the extra stress is no fun.

So, I don’t know what all those other boring people would enjoy receiving, but I can make it easier to buy for me. Ready? Here it goes…

• Buy any book… (Hint: I love reading, and books are still my favorite way to read.)
• That’s non-fiction… (Hint: I particularly like books that could have how in the title or subtitle.)
• That’s made the New York Times Best-Seller list… (Hint: Books that have been on the list for a long time are usually better than those that haven’t been on as long.)
• That you think I’ll enjoy. (Hint: if it’s a non-fiction book that’s made the New York Times list, you can safely assume I’ll enjoy it.)

So really, it’s not that hard.

1. Visit a local bookstore… even a superstore will do. Used bookstores are even better.
2. Look for non-fiction that’s made the list.
3. Buy one that catches your eye.
4. Write a brief note on the inside cover so a) you don’t have to buy a card and b) it seems more personal, like you didn’t just visit my blog to pick out a gift, not that there’s anything wrong with that. 🙂
5. Wrap it in newspaper or toilet paper.
6. Give it to me.

I’ll love it.