Book exchange party
In a book exchange party, each guest brings one wrapped book and swaps it for another, either by drawing names or by a pick-and-steal game. Set a budget of about $10 to $15, add a one-line clue on the wrapping, and ask guests to avoid spoilers.
How the swap works
For the full steal rules see white elephant rules.
- Each guest brings one wrapped book, new or lightly used if the group agrees.
- Write a short clue on the wrapping, like cozy mystery or a book that made me laugh.
- Guests draw numbers. Number one picks a book and opens it.
- The next guest picks a wrapped book or steals an opened one.
- Set a steal limit, such as twice per book.
- When everyone has a book, each guest gets to swap one time if they like.
Budget and used books
A common budget is $10 to $15. Say whether used books are welcome. Many groups like to allow them because it makes the swap cheaper and a bit more sustainable, as long as the book is in good shape. Avoid books with notes or damage, and no gifts that are the same as a book you were just given.
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Genres and clues
| Genre | Clue to write on the wrapping |
|---|---|
| Mystery | Somebody did it |
| Romance | Happy ending guaranteed |
| Sci-fi and fantasy | Other worlds |
| Nonfiction | Learn something new |
| Cookbook | Eat well |
| Humor | Laugh out loud |
| Kids | Pass this one to a young reader |
| Classic | Worth another look |
Ask guests not to bring books with heavy or upsetting themes unless they note it on the wrapping.
Add small extras
- A bookmark in each book.
- A tea bag or a small candy for the reading session.
- A short note about why you picked the book.
- A list of everyone's picks to share after the party.
Secret version for a group or class
If you cannot all meet, draw names and have each person pick a book for their match. Use anonymous chat to ask about genres and what they have already read. The Secret Santa generator handles this with no signup. Set a budget and a swap date, and choose a delivery option. See how to organize a Secret Santa for the full timeline.
Handling duplicates and tastes
Some guests will end up with a book they already own or would never pick. Build in a short swap round at the end, where anyone may trade one-for-one with another guest who agrees. Ask people to write the genre on the wrapping, and to avoid books that are very long, since a swap is meant to be fun and not homework. Kids and teens can have a separate pool with age-fit books.
Pair it with other swaps
A book swap pairs well with a cookie exchange or an ornament exchange, since the items are easy to carry and low cost. For a mixed party, hold a short book swap first and move on to games or dinner after.
Frequently asked questions
How do you run a book exchange party?
Each guest brings a wrapped book. Draw numbers and pick or steal, or draw names for a secret swap.
How much should a book cost?
About $10 to $15. Say if used books are welcome.
What if two people bring the same book?
That is fine. Offer a swap after the game so no one has to keep a duplicate.
How do I help people pick a book?
Ask them to write a clue on the wrapping, like genre or mood, so the swap is fun but not blind.
Can I do it online?
Yes. Draw names, set a budget and have each person ship a book to their match.
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