Curated Reading Collections
I design and assemble thoughtful collections of books based on where you are, what you’re drawn to, and what you may need to build an intentional (and impressive) library.
I curate each collection slowly, sourcing each book by hand.
How It Works
- You complete a short but thoughtful questionnaire
- I review your responses and begin the curation process
- I individually source each book from across the United Kingdom
- Your collection is assembled, carefully packaged, and shipped from the UK
All collections are designed to feel personal, not generic. This is not a service where I randomly choose from a set of pre-chosen books. I give thorough thought and reflection on your questionnaire responses and draw on my years of experience recommending and curating books.
Each collection is built around a central direction.
The theme for the collection emerges from your responses (your current state, reading taste, and what you may be seeking).
Some collections lean toward:
*Esotericism and the occult
*Clarity and direction
*The Decolonized canon
*Rest and non-productivity
*A return to the pleasure of reading books
These are a few examples of themed collections.
The Collections
The Chosen Set (timeframe: 2 weeks + shipping)
A carefully chosen selection. Ideal as a gift or starting point
⭐️ 5 books
⭐️ Curated by theme
⭐️ Custom bookmarks (personalised by name)
⭐️ Carefully packaged and shipped
Total price (including books and shipping)$350
The Personal Library (timeframe: 1 month + shipping time)
A more developed and intentional reading experience
⭐️ 8-10 books
⭐️ Strong thematic direction based on your responses
⭐️ A suggested reading pathway
⭐️ Custom bookmarks
⭐️ Premium packaging
Total price (including books and shipping)$600
Purchase
The Signature Collection (timeframe: 1.5 months + shipping)
A comprehensive, deeply considered collection for those wanting something more substantial.
⭐️ Up to 20 books
⭐️ Highly personalised curation based on your current life context
⭐️ Mixed sourcing (including harder-to-find titles where possible)
⭐️ Multiple inserts and bookmarks
⭐️ Optional 30-minute phone consultation
Total price (including books and shipping)$1400
Purchase
Gifting
Collections can be sent directly to a recipient. If you plan to give this as a gift for a specific date (e.g., Christmas, birthday, anniversary), your order must be received at least 2 months before the date. I will consult with you via email to arrange the exact mailing date so the recipient receives the gift as close to their special day as possible.
If you’re gifting, you’ll be guided through a slightly different questionnaire to help me understand:
*Who the person is
*What they may need right now
*What kind of experience you want them to have
Optional Add-On: The British Edition
This add-on is for those outside the UK but drawn to British culture and atmosphere. This could be you or your Brit-obsessed friend.
This add-on transforms your collection into a distinctly British experience. Books may include a mix of:
*British authors only(classic and contemporary)
*UK-published editions
*Culturally specific titles not easily found outside the UK
*Occasional second-hand or vintage finds (if you agree)
*Your package may also include small, thoughtful elements that reflect the texture of the British reading life.
Who is my book curation service for?
This is for you if:
⭐️You prefer thoughtful selection over common list recommendations
⭐️You value your time and would rather have something chosen well than chosen quickly
⭐️You are building a personal library with intention and care
⭐️You want books that feel relevant to where you are in life, not just what’s trending or popular
⭐️You see reading as a part of how you think, reflect, and live
It is also for those who give gifts with meaning. Those who want to offer something that feels personal and lasting.
FAQs
Isn’t this just like ordering books online from a big-box platform like Amazon?
No!
Book curation is an art.
Ordering books online is efficient, but it requires you to already know what you’re looking for or to rely on algorithms and popular lists.
This service is different.
Each collection is shaped around you (or the person you’re gifting), taking into account:
Where you are mentally or emotionally or your most treasured reading preferences or how you want to expand your library
What you’re drawn to, and what you may be avoiding
What might deepen, challenge, or expand your thinking
The result is not a list of books. The result is a cohesive, intentional collection.
How is this different from popular reading lists or ‘Must-read” books?
Most widely shared book lists circulate the same titles repeatedly.
They are designed for broad appeal.
This service is not.
While well-known books may occasionally appear in a collection, the focus is on:
*Fit over popularity
*Depth over trend
*Discovery over repetition
Many selections will not be the books you see everywhere and that’s intentional.
Can’t I just choose books myself?
Of course.
This service exists for those who prefer not to.
It is designed for people who recognize there are others who have hours to spend combing shelves, bookshops, and specialty bibliophile resources.
The service is for those who:
*Don’t want to spend hours researching
*Sometimes feel unsure or overwhelmed by choice
*Sense there is more they could be reading, but aren’t sure where to begin
You are not paying for access to books.
You are paying for discernment, time, and thoughtful curation.
What if I’ve already read a lot
This is taken into account.
Your questionnaire will explore:
What you’ve already read
What stayed with you (and what didn’t)
What type of personal library you are building (for example, is this a cozy library just for you or a large library where your friends and guests often browse in interest and awe?)
The aim is not to repeat what you already know, but to extend and deepen your reading life and help you build an intentional library.
Are the books new or second-hand (used)?
Most will be new, but sometimes I find vintage or older books that would make a great addition to your collection. The focus is on the right book, not necessarily the newest one.
Can I request specific books?
You’re welcome to mention any titles you’re curious about.
However, this service works best when there is room for:
*interpretation
*unexpected selections
*thoughtful direction
How long does it take?
Each collection is developed and assembled by hand.
Please allow time for sourcing, curation, and packaging.
You will be updated throughout the process.
If you have any further questions, please email me: alicia[at]aliciajoy.net (replace the [at]with @)