Hi, my bookish friend!
Mother’s Day is coming up on May 10th, and choosing a gift beyond flowers and a card can be tricky. But if your mom, or the “motherly” person in your life, enjoys books or wants to get back into a reading habit, you’re in luck!
Because today, I’m giving you a head start on your Mother’s Day shopping and planning with 7 Mother’s Day bookish pairings for (almost) any mom! Each pairing creates a cozy moment with two book recs in different genres, links to thoughtful bookish gifts, and an idea for a priceless bookish experience!
Happy Reading! (And, soon, Happy Mother’s Day!)
Your friend,
Audry
P.S. Bookish AF just surpassed over 1,000 free subscribers! 🎉Thank you to all of you from the bottom of my heart for being a part of our beautiful bookish community! 💗
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Book Recs:
The Midnight Train by Matt Haig (Release Date: May 6, 2026)
A reflective, slightly magical story about second chances and the quiet moments that can change everything. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
A beautifully thoughtful, character-driven novel told through letters that explores connection, grief, and the stories we carry. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)
Gift:
Your time! (And maybe this tumbler! ) See the details below.
Sip & Snack Bookish Moment:
Take Mom on a “book crawl!” Map out a few bookshops, cafes, and scenic locations. Then set out for the day: purchase drinks (or bring drinks - that’s where this tumbler comes in! ), order decadent food choices, set a timer for 15 to 20 minutes, and enjoy peaceful reading at each location. Watch this cute Instagram reel to see a book crawl with Mom in action!
Book Recs:
Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth
A twisty, character-driven mystery with secrets, sharp humor, and a protagonist you won’t forget. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)Dear Debbie by Freida McFadden
A fast-paced psychological thriller packed with tension, secrets, and jaw-dropping reveals. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)
Gift:
A reading light (I bought this one and love it!) for late-night reading binges.
Sip & Snack Bookish Moment:
Pour Mom a glass of wine, pop some popcorn, and watch one of the thriller adaptations from this list with her!
Book Recs:
Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune (Publication date: May 5, 2026)
An emotional, summery love story filled with longing, nostalgia, and complicated second chances. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)Into the Blue by Emma Brodie
A sweeping, romantic story set against a dreamy coastal backdrop, full of secrets, love, and self-discovery. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)
Gift:
The Republic of Tea Bridgerton Tea Assortment Gift and floral tea cups
Sip & Snack Bookish Moment:
Steep tea in a fancy tea pot, sip from dainty cups, and snack on tea sandwiches and sweet treats as you listen to a classic romance on audiobook while working on a puzzle (like this pretty one).
Book Recs:
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
A warm, thoughtful story about a quiet man who transforms a town, and the lives around him, through small, meaningful acts. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)
Go Gentle by Maria Semple
A sharp, funny, and slightly chaotic story about motherhood, identity, and what happens when life refuses to stay predictable. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)
Gift:
A book club reading journal to jot down discussion-worthy thoughts! Plus, this adorable “cocktails with a literary twist” book for the next time she hosts her book club.
Sip & Snack Bookish Moment:
Set your mom up with all the fixings for a charcuterie board, plus wine (see these bookish pairings), for her next book club meeting or to snack on as you discuss your latest reads with her.
Book Recs:
Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer
A beautifully written blend of science and storytelling that invites you to see the natural world as a source of connection, gratitude, and wisdom. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)
The Overstory by Richard Powers
An immersive, sweeping novel that weaves together multiple lives through their deep and transformative relationships with trees. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)
Gift:
A beautiful reading journal or pressed flower bookmarks
Sip & Snack Bookish Moment:
Grab an iced coffee and a pastry and go on an “audiobook walk” with your mom. Pop in your earbuds, press play, and wander through a park or garden together.
Book Recs:
The Austen Affair by Madeline Bell
A charming, feel-good story with literary nods, romance, and cozy, escapist vibes. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)
A Very Novel Murder by Ellie Alexander
A cozy mystery set in a bookish world, full of charm, small-town intrigue, and just enough suspense. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)
Gift:
A cozy blanket and a book-themed candle.
Sip & Snack Bookish Moment:
Go a step further with the cozy accessories to create a “reading nook” she’ll actually want to sit in. Then indulge in this new space with her! Prep hot cocoa and share a plate of cookies as you quietly read your current books. Or take turns reading aloud from one of your favorite books.
Book Recs:
The House of Hidden Letters by Izzy Broom
A heartfelt, atmospheric story about uncovering family secrets and the power of the past. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)
Summer State of Mind by Kristy Woodson Harvey (Publication date: May 5, 2026)
A bright, feel-good summer read filled with friendship, fresh starts, and coastal charm. (Amazon | Bookshop.org)
Gift:
A cute beachy tote bag for books
Sip & Snack Bookish Moment:
Pack up cold drinks and fresh fruit. Plus, bring your books, portable chairs, and sunscreen. Then head to your nearest beach. Or a park will do, too! Enjoy an afternoon of lounging and reading in the sun!
I’ll be back next week with the latest bookish updates! But in the meantime, mark your calendars for movie adaptations coming in May that I’m super excited about:
The Devil Wears Prada 2 is out this Friday, May 1st, in theaters!
Remarkably Bright Creatures is out May 8th on Netflix!
(See this post for more info and to watch the trailers!)
“I know you think of me as your mother only, but please remember, inside I am also just a girl.”
― Virginia Evans, The Correspondent
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Take Time for Yourself to Read (Especially Busy Moms!)
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May 7, 2025
Hi, my bookish friend! Here’s your reminder to carve out some time to do something nice for yourself, whether that’s reading for enjoyment, going for a walk, or any other activity that brings you joy. Use me as your excuse if you want: “Audry from Bookish AF said I have to!”
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