Though he's magic, and has this innate knack for determining inherent wickedness and/or pleasantness (read: naughty and nice), Santa really can't think of everything. He's not omniscient, and eggnog and sugarplums are more lethal to aging iconic brain cells than any recreational pharmaceutical. Without his Madison Avenue advisors, substantial product placement deals, and otherwise limited access to the latest fad-flavored toy of the moment (the elves indicate there are plenty of Furbies to go around, though), the red-suited sleigh driver with a wicked weight problem can be a real disappointing stocking stuffer come the annual cool Yule time.

So it's the PopMatters staff to the rescue. Far friendlier than Mr. Kringle's legions of overworked little people and more synchronized with the current trends in entertainment than some imaginary entities living near the top of the world, we're here to satiate your need for unique, guaranteed-to-please gifts. Looking for unusual DVD selections, that music box set or rarity/reissue that will satisfy that persnickety audiophile in the family, or a book for the more literate of your loved ones? The editors, writers and contributors have picked through their own individual collections and have come up with terrific tidings of great joy for everyone on your never-ending shopping list. There is something here to make your season bright and your particular cultural celebration as festive as possible.

Besides, who do you want helping with your season's greetings — the intelligent and articulate PopMatters personnel, or some dude who hangs out with livestock and has a belly so bountiful it shakes like a bowlful of jelly?

— Bill Gibron

MUSIC
by POPMATTERS STAFF
From hippie pop and seminal punk to girl groups and the three-fingered banjo, PopMatters has got perfect picks for even the most fussy music fan on your shopping list.
[Read Essay]

DVDS
by POPMATTERS STAFF
No matter how obscure or freaky the taste of your gift recipients, PopMatters has a wealth of one-of-a-kind DVD ideas.
[Read Essay]

BOOKS
by POPMATTERS STAFF
Coffee table comic strip collections, a magazine's entire history at your fingertips, and new novels by literary legends: PopMatters recommends this year's must-have books for your favorite bibliophile.
[Read Essay]