The Soul of Gift Wrapping: Creative Techniques for Expressing Gratitude, Inspired by the Japanese Art of Giving

Many people dread wrapping presents for various reasons, but gift wrapping and packaging artist Inouye provides an alternative way to do it. Her book has three core parts—”Inspiration,” “Preparation,” and “Creation”—that are well thought out and flow together in the same way a novel would. The “Inspiration” section is a collection of her true stories about gift wrapping, and each is designed to prep people to embrace the concept of becoming intentional about how and why to wrap gifts. It’s an inspirational title that includes step-by-step directions, including origami techniques, with pictures for various shaped gifts or materials. None of her projects need tape. Some readers may get overwhelmed with the extra steps involved in wrapping, but that’s balanced with gentle and encouraging reminders that the wrapping is part of the fun of giving. She also gives environmentally friendly recommendations to reuse items that can be found around the home.