Tired of ties and tools for father?

So you say that you're having a problem finding a present for Dear Old Dad for Father's Day.

He has every tool known to mankind. There are gallons of after-shave on his dresser. And a new tie just ain't gonna cut it.

Why not give him something to read? Yeah! Books make great gifts for Father's Day. Why not take a look at one of these.

Becoming Dad by Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Leonard Pitts, Jr. (Agate, $16 paperback) is a book for and about African-American men and fatherhood. Leonard Pitts, Jr. grew up in an abusive household, and this book takes a look at what it's like to have a father and what it's like to be one.

So Dad loves his CSI? How about giving him Hardboiled Brooklyn, an anthology of mysteries and stories from Bleak House Press ($15.95 paperback, edited by Reed Farrel Coleman)? This book includes noir mysteries and suspense from authors like Tony Spinoza, Jason Starr, and dozens of others. Dad might even find a new favorite author to read.

Indestructible: The Unforgettable Story of a Marine Hero at Iwo Jima by Jack Lucas, with D.K. Drum (De Capo Press, $22.95) is the perfect book for Dad or Grandpa this year. This is the true first-person account from the youngest Marine in history to win the Congressional Medal of Honor. After you've wrapped this book up and given it as a gift, be sure to borrow it back and read it yourself.

Can't get Dad off the links? Then he'll love Alliss' 19th Hole by Peter Alliss with Rab MacWilliam ($18 paperback, also from Da Capo Press). This book is filled with trivia and fun-to-know facts on golf, golfers, golf courses, and golf history. You won't find a better gift FORE! your dad.

And if your Pop is a sports nut, here's a book that he'll love: Chuck Taylor, All Star by Abraham Aamidor ($21.95, Indiana University Press). You know them. You've seen them on the court. Maybe you've even had your own pair. But who was behind those Converse All-Star basketball shoes? This book is about the guy who created the shoes that became linked with buckets forever.

There are dozens and dozens of other books that will make your dad smile this Father's Day, so if these suggestions aren't exactly right – and you want what's right for Pop – ask your local bookseller for suggestions. Happy Father's Day and Happy Reading!