The Braveskimom Holiday Gift Guide posts on Monday, November 13, 2017.
But we can’t wait until then to share.
Here’s a preview of the books we recommend for gift-giving this holiday season (and for reading anytime!).
Fun Reads for Kids (and the Adults Who Love Them)
The Night Before the Snow Day, Natasha Wing
Part of Wing’s extensive “The Night Before” series, The Night Before the Snow Day captures the anticipation and joy of a stolen day off from school. Set to the rhythm of The Night Before Christmas, it’s a joy to read aloud and perfect for going to bed on the night before a (possible) snow day. Paperback, $4.54
Squirrels on Skis, an “I Can Read It All By Myself” book, J. Hamilton Ray
When a town is overrun by enthusiastic squirrels on skis, a reporter named Sally Sue Breeze discovers an enterprising rabbit making skis from popsicle sticks and selling them for acorns. While the squirrels race through the town, Breeze and the rabbit build a ski lodge. They roast the nuts ’round the fire, and soon, attracted by the delicious scent, the squirrels relocate their fun, making everyone happy. Hardcover, $8.19
Curious George in the Snow, in the style of H.A. Rey and Margaret Rey
Written in 1998, this winter sports-themed Curious George book continues the theme of “George was a good little monkey, but always very curious.” Adults may wonder why the Man in the Yellow Hat never learns, but kids love George. In this story, set at what might be the Winter Olympics, George tries multiple winter sports, wreaks havoc on an alpine ski race, yet everything works out in the end.
The book is a nice tie-in to the upcoming 2018 Winter Olympics. One of eight stories included in The New Adventures of Curious George. Hardcover, $6.99
Ollie’s Ski Trip, Elsa Beskow
Written and illustrated in 1907 by Swedish author Beskow, this is a lovely story about a boy adventuring on his skis after the first big snow. As Ollie skis into the forest he encounters Jack Frost, the King of Winter and Mrs. Thaw. Along the way, he finds the King’s workshop full of busy people crafting skis and boots for holiday gifts. Hardcover (5″ x 7″), $8.45
Fun Reads for Adults
Freedom Found: My Life Story, Warren Miller
For many of us, when we think ski films, we think Warren Miller. His recognizable voice, sense of humor and clever way with words shines through in this autobiography. Miller’s life story, especially the early years with his bohemian parents is fascinating, if disturbing. But the book really shines when Miller takes to skiing and creates his ski bum lifestyle. Born with the ability to sell anything, he literally takes his show on the road and a star is born.
A fun enjoyable read about the early days of skiing and film making. Hardcover, $20.36
Shut Up and Ski, Edie Thys Morgan
An inside look at alpine ski racing and the US Ski Team in the late 1980s and early 1990s through the eyes of a young woman. Author Edie Thys Morgan competed for the US in the 1988 and 1992 Winter Olympics. Part memoir, part fictionalized account, Shut Up and Ski tells of a young woman trying to balance competition, injuries, friendship and success. Paperback, $14.95
Unbound, Steph Jagger
Subtitled “A Story of Snow and Self-Discovery,” Steph Jagger’s memoir of a year spent lugging ski gear, chasing snow and making turns on multiple continents resonates on many levels. Read my full review of Unbound, here. Hardcover, $14.84
Ski, Inc., Chris Diamond
Subtitled, “my journey through four decades in the ski-resort business, from the founding entrepreneurs to mega companies,” Diamond, who retired in 2015 after seventeen years as President of Steamboat Ski and Resort Corporation, recounts his trajectory upward beginning with an accidental job at Killington in the 1960s. Part memoir, part business advice, and fun for anyone passionate about all aspects of skiing and the ski industry. Kindle, $9.99
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Laurel says
I will recommend a couple others to check out for kids…
Spy Ski School. http://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Spy-Ski-School/Stuart-Gibbs/Spy-School/9781481445627
Little Rippers
https://smile.amazon.com/Little-Rippers-Rebecca-Munsterer-ebook/dp/B00EXTBP30/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1508897788&sr=8-1&keywords=Little+rippers
braveskimom says
I love the Little Rippers! Here is my review. https://braveskimom.com/a-skiing-familys-letter-to-santa-gift-ideas
Thanks for the tip on Spy Ski School!
Natasha Wing says
Pair The Night Before Snow Day with Fresh Snow!
braveskimom says
Good suggestion! Fresh Snow is mentioned in this post! Thanks Natasha! Keep the good books coming!