What to Write in a Book as a Gift: 50+ Examples

Choosing the perfect message for a book gift can be as meaningful as the book itself. A thoughtful few words in a book can turn it from a simple present to something more special.

If you’re not sure what to write in a book you’re giving as a gift then these example messages will help. They’re written for different people and occasions so you should find something that fits your situation.

Messages for a Friend

For close friends you can make your message be personal, heartfelt or funny.

• “To my dearest friend, may this book add to your already impressive wisdom and bring you as much joy as your friendship has brought to me.”
• “For all the laughs and tears we’ve shared – here’s to many more adventures, both on and off the pages.”
• “Thank you for being my friend, confidant, and book club member by default. Enjoy every page!”
• “To my lifelong partner in crime: May this story inspire you as much as you inspire me every day.”
• “For my best friend – a book to match your depth, humor, and spirit. I hope it becomes a treasure.”
• “Remember that time when we…? Here’s to more memories and new stories to share. Happy reading!”
• “Books and friends are the perfect blend – enjoy this and think of our incredible journey together.”
• “Just like our endless conversations, may you find endless wonder within these pages.”
• “For the one who knows me best – a story that touched me and made me think of you.”
• “A good book is like a good friend: rich with stories, warm, and inviting. Thank you for being my best one!”

For Family Members

Go for a touching or thoughtful message for a family member who you’re giving a book.

• “To the best parent/sibling/child one could ask for – this book reminded me of you.”
• “Thank you for filling my life with stories worth telling. Here’s another story for us to share.”
• “For my loving [relation], who has taught me the value of stories and the stories of value.”
• “To my [relation], whose wisdom rivals the greatest heroes of literature. May this book inspire you further.”
• “From one book lover to another – may this book make your day a little brighter, as you always do for me.”
• “Every family has a story. Thank you for being such an important part of mine.”
• “To my [relation], for the nights you spent reading to me and the days you inspire me to read more.”
• “Here’s to more shared chapters and family adventures, both real and imagined!”
• “May this book remind you of home, love, and everything that matters most.”
• “A special book for a special [relation] – with all my love and lots of hugs.”

For Colleagues

Show your colleague how much you appreciate and respect them with these kind messages to go in a book.

• “Thank you for your guidance and wisdom. May you find as much inspiration in this book as I have found in your advice.”
• “To a true mentor and leader – may these pages offer you new ideas and much-deserved relaxation.”
• “For my colleague, thank you for making our workplace a richer place. Enjoy this read on your breaks!”
• “Here’s to the lessons we’ve learned and those yet to come. This book is a small token of my big appreciation.”
• “May this book add to your impressive repertoire of knowledge and bring new insights into our discussions.”
• “For the mentor who always encourages ‘just one more chapter’ of learning and growth.”
• “To a remarkable leader, may this book provide you with a few moments of escape and a wealth of new ideas.”
• “Because the best leaders are also great learners – here’s something for your next break.”
• “Thank you for your support and encouragement. Here’s to many more projects and shared successes!”
• “In appreciation of your mentorship and friendship – may this book bring you joy and fresh perspectives.”

For Significant Others

For your significant other you can be romantic or simply reflect your relationship. Use these messages to show them how much you care.

• “Each page I turned made me think of you and our own beautiful story together. Enjoy, my love.”
• “To my other half, may this book be one of the many joys we share as we continue our journey together.”
• “For the one who has captured my heart – a tale as enchanting as you are.”
• “Like our love, may this story bring you warmth, comfort, and endless excitement.”
• “To the love of my life, may this book remind you of our adventures and those yet to come.”
• “For my soulmate, a story I found beautiful and moving, just like the life we are building together.”
• “With all my love, a book to accompany our many nights in and our life’s adventures.”
• “Here’s to the chapters we’ve written and those yet to be penned. Love you always.”
• “A love story for my one and only love – may it bring you as much happiness as you bring me every day.”
• “To my partner in all things – a book to enjoy on quiet nights together or cozy afternoons apart.”

For New Graduates

Celebrating a graduation with a book gift is a classic voice. You can either go for an inspiring message or some wise words for their future.

• “Congratulations on this remarkable achievement! May this book guide you as you blaze new trails in your journey.”
• “To the graduate: Here’s to new beginnings and the many pages of life you have yet to read. Best wishes on your next chapter!”
• “May your future be as bright and promising as the stories within these pages. Congrats on graduating!”
• “As you graduate, remember that life’s greatest lessons come not only from successes but from the challenges you overcome. Enjoy this read!”
• “For the scholar – a book to inspire continuous learning and growth as you move forward.”
• “Wishing you courage, hope, and excitement as you step into new ventures. May this book be your companion along the way.”
• “Congratulations, graduate! May you always find joy in learning and growing, just as you will through the stories of this book.”
• “To a bright future ahead – may your journey be as fascinating as the narratives found in these pages.”
• “Here’s to dreams believed and achievements earned. May this book inspire you to pursue all your biggest dreams.”
• “A toast to your past accomplishments and your future breakthroughs. This book is a small piece of your big journey ahead.”