It’s a cliché to say, but 2015 was a great year for books. (Isn’t it always though?)

There are still a few weeks left before Christmas, so if you haven’t finished your gift shopping yet, here are a couple of my favourite books published this year that will fit wonderfully in to someone’s stocking.

My two top books of 2015 were undoubtedly Trigger Warning by Neil Gaiman and Three Moments of an Explosion by China Mieville, both anthologies by two master fantasy writers. Every story is a new discovery and every word a joy.

Many will remember Helen Mcdonald’s electric readings from the Open Book Festival this year. I became an instant fan. Her novel H is for Hawk is absolutely wonderful.

One of my favourite young adult titles this year was I’ll Give you the Sun by Jandy Nelson. Her novel The Sky is Everywhere is an all-time favourite. And this tale about coming of age siblings doesn’t disappoint.

I always give South African fiction as presents. Not only to support local writers but also to spread the word that local is not only lekker, but also better.

Some of my favourites published this year were:
Dream House by Craig Higginson
Under Ground by S.L. Grey
Beastkeeper by Cat Hellisen
Anna Peters’ Year of Cooking Dangerously by Kathryn White

The English edition of Flame in the Snow – the love letters of André Brink and Ingrid Jonker is only going to be out in a week’s time, but I’m already planning on buying a few as gifts. I cannot wait to disappear into these pages.

If you’re looking for a gift that will keep on giving, then Stray is exactly what you’re looking for. This local anthology features stories by a host of writing talent and all proceeds go to Tears Animal Rescue.

I’m a huge comic book fan, especially titles with female leads. Add nostalgia to the mix and I’m sold.

The retro DC Bombshells series would make a great gift, and Jem is perfect for those who loved the cartoon series in the 80s.