Striking, mysterious, sinister, and strange all describe the singular appeal of plants with black (or near-black) foliage, flowers, or fruit. “Black is not the first color that comes to mind when you think of plants. But as this beautiful guide makes clear,
dark-hued leaves and flowers, from perennials to tropicals, have
enormous appeal in a garden,” says Martha Stewart Living. This lovely, unusual book would be a great gift for your favorite plant- or gardening-obsessed friend. —S.B.

If you know someone who is interested in downsizing their home, simplifying their life, and reducing their imprint on the earth (that should be all of us, right?), don’t miss the revised edition of Little House on a Small Planet. In it, author Shay Salomon offers fourteen basic
principles for the design and habitation of efficient, high-density homes, as well as terrific guidance about living a happier life.