BATTERIES NOT REQUIRED

Over the last five days Blogger, the platform that hosts this blog, experienced system-wide outages and data corruption that made it sometimes impossible to post or comment--and made some posts and comments disappear. Supposedly the issue has been resolved and data restored (although many comments are missing form recent posts on Style Maniac).  The incident reminded me that much as we all love this online medium, sometimes there's nothing better than holding a tangible thing in your hands.  Like a book.  Books have long been and probably always will be one of my top choices for a gift.  Coffee table books, cookbooks, mysteries, manuals, romance, fiction, faction, biography, travel, humor, art--whether you're buying a gift for a birthday or a backyard barbecue you can choose a book that will transport, educate, entertain, delight; not just once but over and over again ... no batteries (or blogging platforms) required.

Need specific book gift ideas?  Check out the Fabulous Finds previously featured on Style Maniac in my Amazon Boutique.  You'll also find Reader's Choice selections for cozy fall reads, pretty coffee table titles and summer books for lazy days by the lake, pool or beach.

Photo from flickr.com via Alison on Pinterest

WORLD'S CUTEST BUSINESS CARDS

My Mini Moo business cards generate so many comments and questions, I decided to join the Moo affiliate program, and add an ordering option on this blog.  So now when you click on this MOO linkor the Moo link and image at the footer of every page, Style Maniac receives a small commission on your order. (All production, processing, payments and customer service are handled by Moo Inc.)

Why am I so crazy about Moo?  The paper has a nice weight, the printing's high quality and the cute little size--about the dimension of a stick of gum--generates all kinds of interest. People have actually tracked me down at an event to grab one for themselves. Best of all you can have 100 different images on 100 cards.  Either select from their wonderful library or upload your own.  A great way for artists, photographers, crafters, entrepreneurs to showcase their work.  Also great as a simple "calling card" or to highlight your blog using photos from blog posts, as I did. (Check out my Mini Moo Makeover here).

BEAUTIFUL BOOKS: What's On Your Coffee Table?

"The best decoration in the world is a roomful of books." 

-- Billy Baldwin

Sometimes, I admit, I do judge a book by a cover.  Whether art, photography, fashion, food, design, "coffee table" books can add spectacular color, life and interest to your home, for a smidgen of what real art would cost. In keeping with this month's theme, and continuing our seasonal series of reader's favorites, please share in the Comments section some of the beautiful books you display in your home. I'll then list your pretty picks, along with your blog link if you have one, in the Style Maniac Amazon Boutique (if offered direct by Amazon).  Looking forward to meeting some gorgeous new selections.

Currently on my table: Degas by Robert Gordon & Andrew Forge