Bookish Crafts: Creating Themed Book Boxes

As you know, here at Once Upon a Book Club we love putting together our world famous book subscription boxes. After all, who doesn’t love a good surprise, especially when it’s wrapped in love, creativity, and contains—of course—books? 

If you’re looking for a fun way to combine the joy of reading with a little extra magic, creating your very own themed book boxes is the perfect project. Whether you're treating your family to an unforgettable movie night, pampering your bestie with some TLC, or creating a genre-specific box, these DIY book boxes will not only bring stories to life but also create lasting memories. 

Get Crafty: Create the Perfect Themed Box

Now, what’s a themed book box without a little creativity on the outside, too? Instead of just buying a fancy box, why not make it personal? Grab an old shoebox, or even that package you’ve been meaning to recycle, and transform it into something special. Trust me, it’s easier (and more fun) than you think! 

Step 1: The Box Transformation

Start by covering your box with colorful wrapping paper, or if you’re feeling artistic, go wild with paint! You can even make a collage using old magazines—cut out fun images, quotes, or anything that fits the theme of your box. 

Step 2: Inside: A Pop of Color with Tissue Paper

Once the outside is looking fab, it’s time to jazz up the inside. Line the box with tissue paper to give it a soft, elegant feel—think of it as rolling out the red carpet for your books and goodies! You can even choose tissue paper that matches your theme: gold and silver for something magical, or bright colors for a fun family vibe.

Step 3: Wrapping the Gifts

Here’s where the excitement really starts to build. Wrap each book and gift individually using tissue paper, gift wrap, or kraft paper. Why? Because unwrapping things is half the fun! 

To take it up a notch, add a tag to each wrapped item with a little clue about what’s inside. Imagine the suspense: “What do demigods eat?” (Hint: It’s a Percy Jackson snack!) or “This story will steal your heart.” It’s like creating a mini treasure hunt right inside the box.

Family Movie Night Book Box: Lights, Camera, Read!

Looking for a way to turn family reading time into an epic event? Then you definitely want to think about creating a themed book box centered around books that have been adapted into TV shows or movies! It’s the perfect way to get everyone involved in the story—from the page to the screen. Picture it: cozy blankets, bowls of popcorn, and your family glued to a book-inspired movie marathon. Add a few extras like DVDs and fun games, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate family night.

Here’s what you need to create the ultimate Family Movie Night Book Box:

Book-to-Screen Magic

Start by picking a book that everyone can enjoy. The key is to find a story that not only grabs the whole family’s attention but also has a movie or TV adaptation. That way, you can dive into the book first, then watch the story unfold on the screen. 

Make sure to include the DVD of the book’s movie adaptation right in the box. That way, when you’ve finished reading the book together, you can pop it in for a fun and immersive family movie night. It’s the perfect way to bring the story full circle and enjoy some quality family time. Here’s a great choice for the whole family:

Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

This one’s a win for the whole family! Follow Percy as he discovers his true identity as a demigod and embarks on an adventure that’s nothing short of electrifying. After reading, pop in the DVD and watch the world of Greek mythology come to life—complete with monsters, gods, and heroic quests. There is also a great new TV show based on the book, which you can stream on Disney+. The kids (and maybe even the grown-ups) will be hooked. 

Popcorn & Snacks Galore

Because what’s a family movie night without snacks? Make sure to include a couple of boxes of popcorn for that classic cinema experience right at home. Want to get fancy? Add some flavored popcorn seasonings, or go the extra mile with candy. Bonus points if you can match the snacks to the book’s theme! (Ahem, Greek-themed snacks, anyone?)

Movie Bingo Game

Why not make things interactive with a custom bingo game? It’s simple: create bingo cards with key scenes, quotes, or characters from the movie adaptation. As the movie plays, your family can mark off spots on their cards whenever those things happen. First one to shout “BINGO!” wins a fun prize—maybe a “Book Lover Extraordinaire” badge or an extra serving of popcorn. It’s a great way to keep everyone engaged!

Not only is this box a blast, but it’s also an amazing way to bond as a family. You get to experience the same story in different formats—discuss how the book and movie compare, which characters you loved, and what everyone thought of the story’s ending. Plus, you’re sneaking in a little extra reading time under the guise of movie night. Parenting win, right?

Spoil Your Bestie: Create the Ultimate BFF Book Box!

Let’s be real—your best friend is basically your lifeline. Whether it’s 2 a.m. panic texts or spontaneous Target runs, they’re always there. So why not spoil them with the ultimate BFF box? Whether your bestie is a busy mom, a workaholic, or just someone who’s been burning the candle at both ends, this box is guaranteed to put a smile on their face!

Book Picks for BFF Bliss

Let’s start with the most important thing: the book! The beauty of this box is you can tailor it to your bestie's tastes. Pair the box with their favorite author or genre, or maybe it's time to introduce them to something completely new. Here are two recommendations that’ll take their mind off everything:

Love of My Lives by Yamile Saied Méndez

This lush and vibrant love story will have your bestie swooning! “Love of My Lives is a lush, vibrant and enchanting story. Escape into the magic of a love destined to be… You won’t regret it.” —Jayci Lee, author of Booked on a Feeling

The Lady Brewer of London by Karen Brooks

If your bestie loves historical fiction, this unforgettable tale set in fifteenth-century England is the one. It’s a brilliant story of courage and defiance, featuring a leading lady that’ll inspire your bestie to conquer her own world (or at least get through the week!)

Self-Care Goodies

Because what’s a BFF box without a little pampering?

Green Clay Mud Mask

Nothing says relaxation quite like a deep-cleansing, pore-tightening, green clay mud mask. It’s guaranteed to give your bestie glowing skin—and maybe even 15 minutes of uninterrupted “me-time.”

Floral Robe

Straight from our February 2023 box, this ankle-length floral robe is elegance personified. Whether they’re curling up with a book or just lounging, your bestie will feel like royalty. 

Inkwell Bath Salts

There’s something about a relaxing bath that just screams “self-care.” These lavender bath salts come in a chic black glass jar and feature a custom label saying "Inkwell Bath Salts, Camelot Co." Trust me, your bestie won’t want to get out of the tub.

And perhaps you need to add that box of chocolates and bottle of wine! If your best friend happens to be a busy mom, why not throw in a little extra love? A voucher offering to take the kids for the evening could be the game-changer. (Moms everywhere, I can hear your collective cheers!) Give your bestie the gift of an uninterrupted bath, binge-watching, or maybe just a nap. Pure. Bliss. 

Conclusion

At the heart of these themed book boxes is one simple idea: making moments with the people you love more special through creativity, care, and the magic of stories. Whether it’s a rainy weekend or you’re just looking for a reason to gather everyone together, a Family Movie Night Book Box will do the trick. Books, popcorn, and a night full of laughter and excitement? Sounds like a perfect evening to me!

And let’s not forget the ultimate BFF box, designed to spoil your favorite person. Whether they’re overdue for a little relaxation or just need a reminder of how amazing they are, this box will do the trick.

Cheers to bookish fun and giving the gift that keeps on giving!