Soon after my daughter turned one, back in the spring, we were quickly swept up in the continual birthday party circuit. Although I had no problems choosing the sweetest outfits for my little party-goer, I had a much tougher time finding the perfect gifts for the birthday boy or girl.

I spent hours scouring the mall and my favourite online sites, but everything felt so impersonal. Plus, I had no idea which toys or books these kids already had­—I’d hate to be the bearer of a duplicate gift. I’m not sure why I put so much pressure on myself. I guess I pride myself on being an awesome gift-giver…what can I say?

Fast-forward to the other day when I opened up an email from a friend telling me about a perfect gift idea: personalized board books! You can weave a special kid’s name and photo, along with a personal dedication, into a Sandra Boynton story or have your little ones create and publish their own tale in a blank board book to give as a gift. Prices are totally reasonable and you can be guaranteed no one else will show up with the same gift!

—Christina, CF‘s managing editor