Father’s Day Gift Ideas: A Guide to Books Dad will Love
May 2025/
Father’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re still on the hunt for the perfect Father’s Day gift, look no further. Books make some of the best gifts—they’re thoughtful, personal, and there’s something out there for every type of dad. Whether he’s a history buff, a lover of true stories, a fan of graphic novels, or someone who just enjoys a good laugh, you can’t go wrong with a great book.
But where do you start? With so many options out there, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in. We’ve rounded up a list of the best books that make perfect Father’s Day gifts, from New York Times bestsellers to hidden gems he’ll love.
Just a heads-up—this post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you shop through them (at no extra cost to you). No gatekeeping here—I only share products I genuinely love and swear by.
Tips for Picking the Perfect Father’s Day Gift
Not sure which book is right? Think about his interests. Is he someone who loves a good true story? Does he love to laugh? Is he always sharing history facts? Matching his personality to the right book can make your gift even more special.
Another idea? Create a small book bundle—a couple of books tied together with a ribbon. This way, he gets a little variety, and you get to show how well you know him. Add a personalized note for a heartfelt touch.
For the Dad Who Loves History
If your dad has a passion for history, gifting him a book that brings the past to life is a perfect choice. Choose from gripping true stories and meticulously researched accounts that transport readers to pivotal moments in time. A captivating narrative can immerse him in the drama of historical events, offering fresh perspectives and unforgettable stories. Whether he’s fascinated by epic battles, legendary leaders, or cultural revolutions, a great history book is more than just a gift—it’s a journey through time.
Pearl Harbor: 75 Years Later: A Day of Infamy and Its Legacy
Commemorating this momentous historical event which brought the United States into World War II, LIFE revisits the infamous scene in beautifully illustrated photographs: the years leading up to 1941, Lindbergh’s antiwar rallies, the desperate scene in Europe and at Winston Churchill’s 10 Downing Street, and the Japanese admiral who realized he awoke a sleeping giant.
Churchill Wit And Wisdom is a celebration of this outstanding figure in British history, presented in 200 photographs hand picked from the vast archives of the Press Association, it covers the major events in Churchill’s life.
An unparalleled voyage across peoples, places, and time unfolds in this sweeping panorama that ranges from Native American settlements to New York’s Chinatown, from the Grand Canyon to Atlantic City.
If your dad has a passion for art and storytelling, a graphic novel is the perfect gift. With their stunning visuals and compelling narratives, graphic novels offer a unique reading experience that blends literature and artwork. Whether he enjoys classic superhero tales, thought-provoking memoirs, or imaginative fantasy worlds, a great graphic novel can captivate his imagination and provide a fresh escape. It’s more than just a book—it’s an immersive, visual adventure.
Taschen “Marvel Comics Library. Avengers. Vol. 2. 1965–1967” Book
Complementing the comics is an essay by Black Panther writer Christopher Priest, whose lively style merges with a deep and abiding love for the comic book art form and its history. Accompanying his essay is a gallery of original art, photographs, rarities, and other ephemera of the era.
Winner of the 1963 Hugo award, Philip K. Dick’s alternative history is a classic of modern science fiction, presented here with vivid illustrations by Shan Jiang.
With striking, immersive art by Fido Nesti, this graphic novel adaptation of Orwell’s dystopian masterpiece offers a fresh perspective for longtime fans while serving as an accessible introduction for new readers, young and old, to a story whose relevance still resonates today.
If your dad is the family comedian, always ready with a witty remark or a classic dad joke, a humorous book is the perfect gift. Whether it’s a collection of laugh-out-loud essays, a witty memoir, or a clever parody, a funny book can keep him entertained and brighten his day. From laugh-inducing stories to clever one-liners, a great humor book is more than just a gift—it’s a ticket to endless smiles and shared laughter.
The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook
An oft-funny collection of very real advice for a wide range of unlikely but completely plausible scenarios.
Get answers to questions to you didn’t even know to ask! The perfect book for anyone with a curious mind and a passion for learning, The Book of Unusual Knowledge is crammed full of interesting facts and mind-blowing information.
Dad Law: The Definitive Reference for All Things Dad
Since the dawn of time, all dads have understood that there are a set of rules for fathers—both old and new alike—that guide them to gleefully repeat terrible puns as well as to hone the perfect deadpan joke delivery.
If your dad is a culinary enthusiast who loves experimenting in the kitchen or exploring new flavors, a cookbook or a food-themed book is the perfect gift. Whether he’s perfecting his grilling skills, diving into gourmet recipes, or exploring the world of mixology, a great food book can inspire his next culinary adventure. It’s more than just a gift—it’s an invitation to savor new dishes, discover flavors, and elevate his passion for food.
“A Man & His Kitchen” Leather-Bound Cookbook
A cookbook of simple, delicious, empowering recipes from the man who really knows what men like.
Slow Food, Fast Cars captures the extraordinary sensory and culinary experience of staying at Casa Maria Luigia. Created in close collaboration with Lara and Massimo, the book collects 85 authentic, accessible recipes for breakfasts, brunches, and all-day snacks, including frittatas and focaccias, salads, cakes and pastries, jams and preserves and more.
If your dad has a case of wanderlust and a love for exploring new places, a travel book is the perfect gift. Whether he dreams of far-off destinations, loves planning his next adventure, or simply enjoys exploring the world from his armchair, a great travel book can transport him to breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures. It’s more than just a gift—it’s a passport to discovery, inspiration, and unforgettable journeys.
“Wine & Travel Italy” Book
Part of Assouline’s new Wine & Travel Series, which explores emblematic destinations through the lens of wine tourism, this edition features an exhaustive list of the best Italian vineyards to discover and a helpful glossary while also providing a deep dive into the country’s best and finest wineries.
Aspen Style celebrates and pays homage to the stark glamour, the working-class history, and the romance of the virtually untouched landscape that gives the town the unique charisma that continues to draw new devotees with each season.
Filled with beautiful National Geographic photography, wisdom from expert hikers like Andrew Skurka, need-to-know travel information, and practical wildlife-spotting tips, 100 Hikes Of A Lifetime offers the planet’s best experiences for hikers and sightseers.
If your dad spends his weekends on the green or is always perfecting his swing, a golf-themed book is the perfect gift. Whether it’s a guide filled with pro tips, a collection of inspiring stories from legendary players, or a deep dive into the history of the sport, a great golf book can fuel his passion and even improve his game. It’s more than just a gift—it’s a hole-in-one for his love of golf.
Golf: The Ultimate Book
Within this perfect gift for golfers, each prestigious golf resort is presented with an expert review, covering its benefits on and off the fairways and greens.
“Tiger Woods – Celebrating 25 Years on the PGA Tour”
In celebration of Woods’ first quarter century on the professional circuit, those moments and memories are collected in Tiger Woods: Celebrating 25 Years on the PGA Tour.
If your dad lives for game days and never misses a match, a sports-themed book is the perfect gift. Whether he’s passionate about football, basketball, baseball, or even a lesser-known sport, a great sports book can capture the thrill of victory, the agony of defeat, and the inspiring stories of legendary athletes. It’s more than just a gift—it’s a front-row ticket to the excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments that make sports so captivating.
“The Story of Football in 100 Photographs” Book by Sports Illustrated
Through 100 evocative, often stunning photographs, as well as the stories that accompany them, Sports Illustrated visits the great arc of football, America’s most popular spectator sport.
Featuring more than 100 photographs and written coverage from the pages of Sports Illustrated this new volume provides readers a complete portrait of the international basketball superstar who transcended his sport to become a cultural icon.
Become an expert on your favorite teams and players as you take a glorious trip into the storied history of America’s pastime. Maybe you won’t become a member of the Hall of Fame, but after you read The National Baseball Hall of Fame Collection, you’ll feel like part of the club!
