Enjoyable Books—Expressive Merch
Amber’s Suggestions for 2025 Gift Giving!
I’ll start of some of my favorite comic books this year. They’re not “Christmassy” at all, but books don’t need to be when you’re giving them to someone to enjoy after the holidays (or for yourself).
Somehow, I never wrote a full review of ROSE WOLVES volume one by Natalie Warner. I clearly remember gushing about it on Bsky in 2023. I stated, “Top Shelf has snared my heart,” and explained why Rose Wolves was special: “Rose Wolves by Natalie Warner. Rose Wolves shows creativity in execution with scribbly forms, monochromatic except for the black of the wolves, and bittersweet emotional connections.” This month, volume two of the enchanting story was released. I have a preview and review of it this time.
A translated French comic, though there are few spoken words, which I’ll let you know is my Favorite Comic of 2025 is TRUMPETS OF DEATH by Simon Bournel-Bosson (translated by Edward Gauvin). Lerner Publishing Group released this OGN in the summer. Coincidentally, I didn’t read it until we were smack in the midst of hunting season which plays a part in the theme of this story. Read my review and preview pages for yourself.
Without giving away any spoilers, Antoine finds a temporary means of escaping his grandparents’ house. There is an important showdown between Antoine and Gilbert at the climax. As a character, he goes through remarkable changes and personal growth. He returns more mature and confident. By the end, readers can get a sense of relief that Antoine won’t be a victim anymore.
If you’re looking for more heft in your comic book gifting, here are a couple of suggestions:
A deluxe 75th Anniversary coffee table book celebrating the life, art, and legacy of Charles M. Schulz is collected in THE ESSENTIAL PEANUTS (Abrams ComicArts; October 7, 2025; $75; hardcover in a slipcase with a portfolio of bonus extras) by award-winning writer Mark Evanier. I have more information about this Abrams Comic Arts release.
In case you missed this book collection announcement of Nnedi Okorafor’s multi-award-winning THE BINTI TRILOGY featuring illustrations by fine artist David Palumbo, now is your chance to find The Folio Society printing. This is a 360-page omnibus edition featuring seven full-page colour artworks by Palumbo, plus black and white illustrated part-title pages and dark blue metallic endpapers. This will blow away any sci-fi fan in your life! Get more details here.
I can tell you that I purchased several books by Patrick McDonnell starring his MUTTS comics and characters. They’re easy to read and I know the kids I’m giving them too are older—but McDonnell’s books are about the message not reading comprehension levels. I grabbed The Gift of Everything, The Gift of Nothing, Guardians of Being, Shelter Stories: Love. Guaranteed, and Breaking the Chain: The Guard Dog Story. Some of them are even signed. In McDonnell’s catalog, you’ll also find books he did with his Holiness the Dalai Lama, Eckhardt Tolle, and Jane Goodall.
At Mutts.com, you’ll also find a selection of merch like cat lady shirts, mugs, magnets, and catnip-stuff versions of Mooch’s favorite Little Pink Sock! I got them for Oliver and Gus!
Oni Press is a stalwart champion for the LGBTQIA+ community. Their comic, GENDER QUEER by Maia Kobabe, has a lot of merch too. A portion of all proceeds benefiting the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (CBLDF) and the Florida Freedom to Read Project (FFTRP). Learn more about it.
Speaking of the queer community, Jennie Wood’s debut novel, A BOY LIKE ME, celebrated its 10th Anniversary this year through Invader Comics (previously 215ink). This is a beautifully told story about discovering one’s identity and the impact it has on relationships. There’s a special edition for this anniversary available through Invader Comics’ shop for an affordable $20.
And if those suggestions don’t work
See what artists are accepting commissions! It might not be done by the holidays, but that’s ok. Make up a little coupon with the information and say it’s on the way.
My Own Books Are Great Too!
It would be ridiculous of me not to plug my own books. Digital is the easiest, but there are paperback options (other than Amazon). You can find them through BookFunnel, Gumroad, IndieBound, BAM, B&N, and Amazon. Sometimes it’s easier to search by “Farrah Wethers” for my mysteries or my penname “Elizabeth Amber Love.” Don’t be shocked that romance authors with similar names will come up. My bear book is not at all what those bear books are about. ElizabethAmberWrites.com
Founder and Editor-in-Chief of AmberUnmasked.com and Vodka O'Clock Podcast. Author of The Farrah Wethers Mysteries, comic book short stories, prose, and non-fiction. Cosplayer and figure model.