🎁 6 Coffee Books to Read (or Gift) This December

1. Bloom: Mikael Jasin on Coffee as an Agent of Change by Tigger Chaturabul

The inspiring life story of 2024 World Barista Champion Mikael Jasin, from his Indonesian roots to the global coffee stage. This biography blends resilience, passion, and the pursuit of purpose into a journey that will inspire coffee lovers and dreamers alike. Call me biased, but I do think Bloom is the perfect coffee book to read during this reflective time of year.

For people who:

• are incorporating more mindfulness into their lives
• are interested in coffee competitions
• want to broaden their view on coffee careers

2. The World Atlas of Coffee (New Third Edition) by James Hoffmann

Beginner friendly, yet useful for seasoned pros. This extensive, freshly updated guide walks readers through coffee’s journey from origin to cup, with maps, origin profiles, cultivation stories, and brewing tips. It’s the perfect gift for anyone curious about the global roots and endless variety behind their daily brew.

For anyone who:

• is discovering new coffee preferences 
• is struggling to catch up with all the updates at origins  
• is a fan of @jimseven

3. The New Art of Coffee: From Morning Cup to Caffeine Cocktail — Ryan Castelaz

A playful, beautifully photographed exploration of coffee creativity, from inventive drinks to bold flavor ideas. This one’s perfect for adventurous brewers who see coffee as both craft and canvas.

For people who: 

• love experimenting with flavors  
• are curious about pushing the boundaries of preparation methods  
• are planning creative festive menus

4. My Barista ABCs — Christine Rollings

A bright and charming alphabet book introducing the world of coffee through kid-friendly illustrations and simple concepts. A sweet stocking stuffer for families who love cafés, rituals, and sharing stories together.

For kids who:

• are curious about their parents’ jobs  
• like bears  
• are into niche vocabulary

For parents who:

• are still excited about coffee at bedtime 
• like bears  
• want to groom their kids to take over the cafe, preferably soon

5. Making Better Coffee — Edward F. Fischer

Anthropologist Edward Fischer explores how value, taste, culture, and economics intersect in the global coffee trade in a case study of Mayan people in Guatemala. A compelling, thought-provoking read for anyone who wants to understand coffee not just as a drink, but as a system and a story shaped by people.

For serious people who:

• want a sobering read on the problematic history of the coffee industry and how those systems continue to oppress today  
• are tired of the polished positivity of ‘marketing speak’ and want it given to them straight

6. Legends & Lattes — Travis Baldree

A warm, low-stakes fantasy about a retired warrior opening a coffee shop instead of fighting her next battle. Comforting, character-driven, and wonderfully cozy — ideal for readers who want a break from the chaos of December.

For cozy people who:

• are overwhelmed by real world problems and need an escape into fantasy  
• just want a cozy holiday by the fireplace  
• have access to cinnamon rolls, because it will make you crave them