I just hate that people waste money on cards that will be thrown away. I used to give out handmade cards, and even those get tossed out. Oh well, I still give cards sometimes.
I can see why some people object to being ASKED to bring a book instead of a card, because it's like being asked to bring 2 gifts. But if I'm going to spend $5 on a card, I'd rather spend $5 and get a book your kid will love for years to come.
This is a fairly popular thing to do within my friend group, so it doesn't seem out of line to me. I can see how it would be thought of as asking for two gifts, however. I'm not sure what my hosts are doing for my shower - I will leave it up to them.
I am attending a shower in a couple weeks for a friend who is an English teacher. Her host mentioned books in lieu of cards on the invite, which feels very appropriate given her profession. I probably would have done that anyway, but it didn't feel awkward to be included on the invite in that context.
Re: Baby Shower - Books instead of cards?
I can see why some people object to being ASKED to bring a book instead of a card, because it's like being asked to bring 2 gifts. But if I'm going to spend $5 on a card, I'd rather spend $5 and get a book your kid will love for years to come.