The Art of Regifting: Your ABC's Guide to Regifting, the Do's and Don'ts, Urban Legends and Folklore

Barbara Bitela
Outskirts Press, Inc. (2006)
ISBN 1598003143
Reviewed by Cherie Fisher for Reader Views (11/06)


I have to admit that prior to reading this book on regifting, I have never practiced the art.  The “Art of Regifting” literally covers the subject from A-Z in 55 very well-written and hilarious pages.  After reading it, I now feel up to the task of regifting.   

There are basically two rules to follow when regifting:  1.) The gift has to be unused (unless of course they are authentic antiques and collectables), and 2.) Tthe gift must be passworthy.  The author, Barbara Bitela describes passworthy as “that which is worthy of being passed and the item should make a favorable impression.” 

“The Art of Regifting” is also filled with valuable advice and stories from Bitela’s friends and relatives.  It opens with “As Kellymarie tells me:  “Before you regift, ‘Note to self,’ be sure the gift you are to regift isn’t going to the very same person who gave it to you!”  Imagine… a mistake on this rule and what a horror show that would make for the holidays with the in-laws.  Another great piece of advice “I - Intact:  Peter (Bitela’s regifting father-in-law) recommends:  Be sure if it reads assembly required,” you don’t leave pieces of it outside the box.  Very inconvenient if you’ve already wrapped it.”

Bitela thoroughly touches on all subjects from A-Z in a very humorous way.  I really liked her references to other topics in her definitions such as “Labels:  Labels, price tags, etc., are to be removed prior to the rewrap, which is prior to the regifting.  (See Untraceable).  U - Untraceable:  (See Secrecy.)”  This goes on throughout the book.  Even the most serious person will not be able to get through this without a smile on their face.  

This easy-to-read book is great to buy for yourself or to give as a gift (or regift), especially to those friends and relatives who are guilty of not following the “regifting” protocols.  “The Art of Regifting” would also make a valuable engagement present.  Used correctly, a bride and groom could save money on presents for years. 

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