Gen Z is the largest generation ever, with wealth and buying power that continues to grow. For retailers looking to pull off a successful holiday season, keeping Gen Z top of mind is critical when coordinating your seasonal assortments. To make it a little easier this year, we’ve combed through our favorite books and gifts to bring you our top picks that speak to Gen Z trends and values!
Novelty and quirk are traits with major appeal to a generation that has demanded fresh ideas from brands and pioneered the absurdist internet humor of the 2020s and late 2010s. Lean into whimsy, unexpected mash-ups, and books with novel special features and “object” appeal. The Pasta Tarot is an easy stocking stuffer gift with plenty of quirky charm for Zoomers who enjoy dabbling in divination or the arcane art of whipping up the perfect carbonara. Southern Gen Zers will appreciate the literal packaging of the Whataburger Fancy Ketchup Puzzle, combining an iconic fast food brand with a similar lighthearted humor that drives their love of ice cream cone-shaped footstools, croissant lamps, and butter stick candles. And for the cozy gamers, The Official Stardew Valley Cookbook is the perfect gift for bringing their favorite virtual treats to life right in their own kitchen (pink cake, anyone?).
Nostalgia speaks to all generations. For Gen Z, that means an interest in 2000s media and pop culture as well as products that allow them to relive the freedom and joy of childhood. Gilmore Girls is an endlessly rewatchable gem of early 2000s television that Zoomers are rediscovering through streaming apps. Gilmore Girls Life Lessons puts a self-care twist on a fandom gift, making it perfect pick for anyone who dreams of living in Stars Hollow. Paris Hilton, iPods, and reality TV were staples of a Gen Z childhood, but how much do they really remember? The 00s Quizpedia puts their Y2K knowledge to the test in a fun, interactive game that’s easy to break out and play with friends after a weekend Powerpoint party. Snoopy has found new life among young people who relate to his imaginative escapism and exasperation with daily grown-up tasks. Now Gen Zers can learn how to capture Snoopy’s wit and attitude for themselves in Peanuts Be More Snoopy! And finally, Dress Up Harry is an adult activity book with plenty of childhood appeal, combining the massive starpower of Harry Styles with the nostalgic past time of playing dress up with paper dolls.
Of course, Gen Z have been the main drivers of this year’s biggest trends. For the girlies still living in their “coquette” era, the feminine floral and bow illustrations of the Puffin in Bloom: Emma Tote Bag (designed by renowned stationery brand, Rifle Paper Co.) make this the perfect accessory for toting books around town. Young men are becoming increasingly more interested in style and self-care, making Esquire’s The Handbook of Men’s Style an excellent gift for any guy working to level up his look. And we all know that 2024 was the year of Taylor Swift. Keep the Eras tour magic going with Taylor Swift by the Book or Heart Home’s Taylor Swift photo book!
Explore these and more of our favorite books for Gen Z on our gift list linked below!
