Because they represent the sentiment of appreciation as well as the idea of being chosen especially for their beloved recipients, books surely rank among the best gifts for Mother’s Day. They endure, and also remind the recipients of those who gave them every time they’re opened.
Here are our suggestions:
“The Joy Luck Club” by Amy Tan: Perhaps the definitive narrative between different generations of Asian women from the homeland to America, Tan’s masterpiece touches on all the things that haunt and hurt mothers and daughters. With its revelations at the end—and the popular motion picture adaptation that followed it—“The Joy Luck Club” has found more to tie mothers and daughters together than any other modern novel. If you haven’t gotten this for your mom yet, now is the best time to do so.
“Motherhood Statements” edited by Rica Bolipata-Santos and Cyan Abad-Jugo:
The length and breadth of the Filipino experience of motherhood are aptly represented by the 30 well-written essays in this now classic anthology. Some essays emerge from the view of being mothers, others from the view of children. The topics “Motherhood Statements” touch on range from the humorous to the heartbreaking, and the contributors include Gilda Cordero-Fernando, Cristina Pantoja-Hidalgo, Marra PL Lanot, Ambeth Ocampo, Charlson Ong and Neni Sta. Romana Cruz.
“Written in my Own Heart’s Blood” by Diana Gabaldon:
Got a mom with a romantic streak and a taste for unique adventures? Then the eighth volume in Gabaldon’s time-traveling romantic series could be just the right gift. Also the subject of a successful TV adaptation, the newest in Gabaldon’s Outlander series features the time-tossed nurse Claire Fraser—originally from World War II—now dealing with the highs and lows of the American Revolutionary War.
These books are captivating and addictive, especially if you want to know if love really does conquer all, regardless of the time or place.
“Make A Statement: 25 Handcrafted Jewelry and Accessory Projects” by Janet Crowther and Katie Covington:
Crowther and Covington are both New York jewelry designers who figured there was a market for DIY jewelry projects and founded the successful business For The Makers. They bring their signature style and skill for instruction in this heavily-illustrated, step-by-step guide to making everything from hoop earrings to charm bracelets; it has a section for basic beginners but also some more advanced projects.
This is the perfect thing for mothers who like to make things with their hands and delight in intricate, stylish jewelry.
“I Will Always Love You More” by Peachy G. Concepcion and illustrated by Joel Chua:
This warm, wonderfully illustrated book isn’t what it appears to be. This picture book is told from a mother’s point of view as she speaks about how much she loves her daughter. But then, the book shows mom’s feelings as the daughter grows up. Her feelings are complex, but still very much supportive and loving.
It’s a delightful portrait of a mother’s lasting relationship with her daughter, encapsulated in that title: “I will always love you more.” Give it to your mom—or your daughter—today.
Available at National Book Store branches.
