Imperial, California (NAPSI) - Here are two excellent ideas about what to give the next time you want to get your mother a present whether for Mother’s Day, her birthday or just to show how much you care.

Considering she probably helped you learn to read, a book or two is likely to be greatly appreciated, especially these:

• For love of Mom. From teaching children to tie their shoes, to parallel parking, to outfitting them for their first dance or first day in the dorm room, mothers have been their kids’ chief counselors, cheerleaders, critics, chauffeurs and chefs.

Now, this new book, “For the Love of Mom: Amazing True Stories of Moms and the People Who Love Them” by Maria Bailey, can be a way to pay homage to the special woman who rocked you, raised you, championed you, challenged you and even—at times—exasperated you.

While the experience of motherhood is different for every woman, one thing is universal: It’s almost impossible to fathom the myriad of joys and triumphs encountered on the journey.

Whether the mom in your life became so by giving birth or through the blessings of adoption or stepparenting, she’s likely to be moved, inspired and entertained by these true stories that share both the monumental milestones and everyday moments of motherhood. Some stories are humorous, some heartfelt; others will help moms through the trying times, yet all underscore the devotion and dedication we admire most about mothers.

This book celebrates moms and the uniquely important roles they play in everyone’s life.

• Fun for fans. Another terrific tome, “Life Could Be Verse,” features the poetry of legendary actor Kirk Douglas.

Beautifully bound, it’s something most moms—Spartacus fans or not—would be happy to have out on the coffee table.

The book was created by the renowned actor, crowned as one of the greatest male screen legends in American film history by the American Film Institute, leading up to his 99th birthday. It offers an intimate look into his life through poetry, prose and photos. He pulls the curtain all the way back, exposing the bombs and blockbusters of both his personal and professional life.

He also celebrates the leading ladies in his life, from Marlene Dietrich to Lauren Bacall to Brigitte Bardot, as well as his wife of more than 60 years, the actress and film producer Anne Buydens.

Douglas’ words and his poems, written for his wife, his sons and others, are comical, sentimental, romantic, sometimes even painful but always intriguing.

Where to find them: Both books are available on Amazon, from the publisher at www.hcibooks.com and elsewhere books are sold.