10 Essential Gifts for Writers

Updated November 20, 2019

Writers are a diverse group, but when it comes to gifts, there are a few essentials every wordsmith will love.

Writer's Market

As the quintessential reference book for new and established writers, "Writer’s Market" provides information on everything from finding a literary agent to pitching ideas to publications to crafting query letters, and more. The suite of “market books” is released once a year, and their niche companions include “Novel & Short Story,” “Children’s Writers and Illustrators,” “Guide to Literary Agents,” and “Poet’s Market.” "Writer’s Market" also offers an online subscription that includes access to all the reference books and latest publishing industry news.

A Master Class

Screenwriter Aaron Sorkin — Getty Images

Writers never stop learning and perfecting their craft, and a master class is a great way to help your literary friend polish their ambitions. Masterclass.com offers gift options for its collection of online courses, each featuring the unique insight of a notable author. Past classes have been taught by Aaron Sorkin, James Patterson, R.L. Stine, and Judy Blume, to name a few.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

noise cancelling headphones — Getty Images

Every writer has their own ideal work environment, and noise is a big part of the equation. Whether the goal is to blast music or simply eliminate background chatter, noise-canceling headphones provide an effective barrier that promotes privacy and productivity.

A Writing Prompt Notebook

300 Writing Prompts notebook — Amazon.com

Writer’s block is a dreaded (but common) professional hazard. Shaking off a difficult workday is harder than it sounds, and a book of writing prompts can help your friend track down their voice. Whether they include personal reflection or creative challenges, sometimes a change of pace is the best cure.

A Book of the Month Subscription

shelf of books — Courtesy of BB Stock.exchg

“There is no friend as loyal as a book,” said Ernest Hemingway, except maybe one who gifts them. Many writers believe—aptly so—that reading is a professional necessity, and there’s nothing better than a steady stream of literary inspiration. Book of the Month has delivered books to the doors of readers for more than 90 years, and offers a gift option.

A Wireless Typewriter Keyboard

typewriter keyboard and tablet — Amazon.com

A typewriter is a mechanical nostalgia, but when it comes to productivity, using one in today's world isn’t exactly practical. A wireless typewriter keyboard combines simplicity with technology by allowing the user to connect their tablet to the USB keyboard. The result is old-school satisfaction with a modern-day twist.

"On Writing" by Stephen King

The father of horror has amassed a lifetime of writing wisdom, and he shares it in "On Writing:" part memoir for readers, part instruction guide for writers. Detailed in this invaluable book are King's insights into the publishing business, his struggles, successes, and most importantly, the methods he uses to create his best-selling work. When it comes to writing instruction, the buck stops here.

A Digital Voice Recorder

Writers need a reliable voice recorder during interviews to capture quotes and soundbites. This is a gift that is useful and handy, and sure to be used if your writer produces magazine copy, profiles, or works for newspapers or websites.

Freedom Writing Software

We all face distractions at work, and for a writer, getting lost in social media or the news of the day can break their creative flow. Freedom is a productivity software that allows the user to block specified sites for a pre-set amount of time. When willpower and focus are an issue, Freedom is truly a valuable gift.

A Single Sheet Cutter Tool

cutter slicing newspaper — Courtesy of Levenger.com

Your writer gets a great column into a great magazine, and wants to include it in a physical writer's portfolio or have a crisp copy to scan. Scissors leave rough edges that look unprofessional. A Levenger single sheet cutter solves the problem by easily slicing through newspaper and glossy magazine print, allowing your friend to save their work with precision.

Getting It Right

Form and function are what writers crave most, and shopping creatively is always appreciated. Take stock of your writer friend's personality and professional needs to find a gift they'll love.