Book Boxes are my children’s absolute favorite gifts, and it’s easy to see why! The concept is simple yet magical: I choose a book I know they’ll love and pair it with a handful of themed gifts that bring the story to life. When they open their Book Box, they find a book alongside a collection of wrapped presents, each labeled with a page number. As they read, they get to open a surprise at just the right moment—guided by bookmarks placed throughout the book. The anticipation is thrilling, and I’ve never seen my kids read faster! They can’t wait to reach the next gift, making the experience both exciting and immersive.
The gifts can be as simple as small trinkets or as special as something they’ve been eagerly awaiting. No matter what, each present deepens their connection to the story, turning reading into an adventure.
Recently, while reading Zoey and Sassafras: Dragons and Marshmallows by Asia Citro, with illustrations by Marion Lindsay, I couldn’t help but think of all the fun items that would make a perfect Book Box for this story! If you’re looking for a fantastic gift for a child aged 7-11, this book is a wonderful choice. While the main character is a girl, boys will absolutely enjoy it too!
Here are some fun gift ideas to include in a Zoey and Sassafras Book Box:
– Scientific Goggles (Page 6) – Zoey puts on her “thinking goggles” during important moments in the story. Kids can wear their own thinking goggles as they read, just like Zoey!
– Notebook (Page 31) – Zoey gets a brand-new scientific journal to document her experiments and magical discoveries. An official notebook of their own makes it even more exciting!
– Glitter Pens (Page 46) – The first time Zoey writes in her notebook calls for some extra sparkle! These pens add a fun, magical touch to any notes or drawings.
– Marshmallows (Page 53) – Zoey discovers that the dragon’s favorite snack is marshmallows—why not let your little reader enjoy some, too?
– Camera (Page 85) – At the end of the book, Zoey finally takes a photo of the magical dragon. A small camera lets kids capture their own adventures and they can decorate their “magical” photos with glitter pens!
Book Boxes make reading a truly interactive experience, turning every page into an adventure. If you want to inspire a love of books in a fun and memorable way, give this idea a try—you just might spark a lifelong reader!
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