Australia’s leading independent publishing and media business, Hardie Grant is spotlighting local and international authors through a new online book gifting service.

Backed by Hardie Grant, HGX has a unique grasp of the publishing category, gifting space, and power of storytelling. It was this rich knowledge and experience that sparked the creation of Handsel – the future of book gifting.

Through the vast product offering and creative personalisation elements, Handsel allows consumers to easily select the perfect gift for any occasion from handwritten notes to custom book inscriptions.

“We know that a huge percentage of books are purchased as gifts – and for good reason – so we wanted to improve that experience for the giver and the recipient,” HGX managing director, Jacinta Hardie-Grant said.

“Compared to flowers or a traditional food hamper, a book is long-lasting, considered, and individual and when combined with our personalisation options, same-day delivery, and a curated range, we’ve created a truly meaningful gifting platform.”

The start-up offers exclusive access to the best books Australia has to offer with the convenience of nationwide delivery and same-day delivery in Melbourne. The word ‘handsel’ comes from an Old Norse word which means: to give into one’s hand. Every order is picked, packed, personalised and delivered by hand.