The end of the school year is a time of confetti, closure, and—let’s be honest—a little bit of chaos. There are award ceremonies, report cards, class photos, and more snack-filled parties than we can count. But underneath the excitement is something even bigger: the end of a chapter. Whether it’s your child finishing third grade or your favorite high school senior walking the stage, there’s a shared feeling of pride and possibility in the air.

That’s what makes this season the perfect time to give a gift that’s meaningful, joyful, and built to last, like a Once Upon a Book Club book subscription box. These story-driven surprises aren’t just gifts; they’re experiences. With each box offering a curated book and wrapped page-numbered goodies, it’s a chance to say “thank you,” “I’m proud of you,” or “here’s to your next big adventure” in the best way possible.

Why Books Are the Perfect Year-End Gift

Books are timeless! They never run out of battery, go out of style, or get lost at the bottom of a drawer. They capture us amongst their pages with their stories, provide us with inspiration, give us a moment to reflect, and a gentle nudge to imagine more. For kids and adults, reading can be a powerful way to move from one season of life to another.

Studies show that books, especially when read for pleasure, boost empathy, creativity, and emotional well-being . When you pair a thoughtfully chosen book with our fabulous unboxing experience, you add an extra layer of magic. Our boxes contain those beautifully wrapped surprise gifts we are famous for, and each one is opened at just the right page. It’s not just reading, it’s an experiential adventure!

So, if you’re searching for a gift that says more than just “good job” or “thank you,” our book box offers that something extra. We’re all about making moments special. It’s a screenfree, story-filled celebration that turns the joy of reading into an unforgettable experience.

 

Gift Ideas for Every Recipient

For Teachers & Librarians

The people who guide, inspire, and help shape who we become, our teachers, deserve to be celebrated in a truly meaningful way. A heartfelt gift can be a small but powerful way to say “thank you” for their dedication, patience, and impact. That’s exactly what The Teacher Box was created for.

Inside this beautifully designed lavender, book-shaped box, they’ll find:

• a new, paperback copy of The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer⁠ 

• a personalized, handwritten teacher card⁠

• a pack of exclusively designed book sticky notes to keep track of their endless     to-dos

• a custom-designed "Chaos Coordinator" insulated travel mug because hot beverages are a necessity⁠ 

• a “Teach From the Heart” gold necklace with a small heart charm to remind them of the good they bring into the world every single day⁠

• an exclusive “Because of a Teacher” hand lotion to offer a small moment of serenity in their busy days⁠

• a "Teacher Things" canvas tote bag to ensure they are always ready for the next teaching moment⁠

Whether you’re gifting it in person or sending it directly to their doorstep, the Teacher Box is ready to make their day extra special from the moment it arrives. 

Order your box here: The Teacher Box

Or, if you’re unsure of their reading taste, a gift card is always a thoughtful and flexible option.

 

For Graduating Tweens

Finishing elementary school is a big deal. It’s a time of discovery, growing independence, and the first real taste of “who am I becoming?” A Tween Book Subscription Box from OUABC is the perfect gift to help them transition into their next stage. Each box is carefully curated for ages 9-12 and includes a middle grade book, three to five surprise gifts tied to key moments in the story, and thoughtful extras like stickers and reading guides.

It’s a fun, screen-free activity that offers imagination, empathy, and quiet time after a year full of change. Whether it’s for your child, a student, or a niece or nephew, it’s the kind of gift that keeps their love of reading alive all summer long.

Explore our Ready-To-Ship Tween Book Boxes here!

 

For High School Graduates

The cap and gown may be traditional, but your gift doesn’t have to be. Celebrate the transition from high school to “whatever comes next” with a Young Adult Book Subscription Box or the new Graduation Box from OUABC. These boxes are the perfect way to celebrate your recent high school or college graduate! Next to their degree/certificate, this gift might just be the second-highest honor they receive! 

The Graduation Box includes:⁠ ⁠

• a new, paperback copy of Today Tonight Tomorrow by Rachel Lynn Solomon

• a personalized, handwritten graduation card

• a custom-designed 11oz mug reading "Certified Responsible Adult" 

• a mint green disposable camera to capture the memories

• "You did it!" celebration confetti popper to ensure the celebration is a blast

• a custom leather tasseled bookmark that reads "On to the next chapter"

• a custom "Letters to My Future Self" writing kit including 12 notecards and accompanying envelopes to ensure their future self isn't TOO distraught by the wonderful world of adulting without a pep talk from themselves of the past.

Check it out here: The Graduation Box

For Book-Loving Staff or Administrators

You know that office secretary who always remembers your name? Or the administrator who cheered your child on during testing week? A past box or boutique item from OUABC makes a beautiful and thoughtful thank-you gift! 

Choose from our ready-to-ship boxes or shop boutique items like themed journals, bookmarks, or mugs. It’s the kind of gift that says, “I see all you do, and it matters.”

These options are perfect when you want something heartfelt but not over the top. Pair it with a handwritten note, and you’ve got a meaningful gift they’ll truly appreciate.

 

The OUABC Difference

So what makes us different? It’s not just about reading—it’s about living the story. Each book box includes a newly released book and a series of beautifully wrapped, page-numbered gifts that are designed to be opened as you read. These surprise items bring key scenes to life, turning the act of reading into a fully immersive experience.

Whether you choose a subscription, a one-time gift box, or a themed collection like the Teacher or Graduation Box, you’re giving a story that unfolds in the most delightful way.

Testimonials: Real Gifting Moments

We’ve seen firsthand how these boxes brighten someone’s day and spark long-term reading habits. One teacher who received the Teacher Box wrote: “I love this teacher-themed box! The sturdy mug is a winner. The tote is strong and thick and sends a message of my awesome power. The delicate necklace is so sweet! We wash our hands constantly, so claps for the hand lotion!”

You can find more happy reactions on our Community Page, where OUABC readers share their favorite unboxing moments and literary surprises.

 

Make the Last Day of School Unforgettable

Whether you’re thanking a teacher, celebrating a student, or simply want to mark the end of the school year with something special, a book box makes it easy and unforgettable. It’s a screen-free gift with soul—a reminder that stories can comfort, challenge, and connect us as we turn the page into summer.

Congratulations to all the parents who are celebrating their children’s success. We know they couldn’t have done it without you. Whether it was helping them prep for a speech, testing them on what they know, or finding 3 paperclips, 1 toilet paper roll, and an orange card the night before a project was due, you were right there beside them, offering that much-needed support!

 

Sources

Clark, C., & Rumbold, K. (2006). Reading for pleasure: A research overview. National Literacy Trust