· Mason Everett · Reviews · 7 min read
9 Best Side By Side Books and Calendars for 2026
Finding the perfect additions for your bookshelf or daily routine can be surprisingly challenging given the sheer volume of options available. When searching for the Best Side By Side items to grace your home, it is crucial to consider factors like content quality, lasting engagement, durability of materials, and the overall value they bring to your life. Whether you are looking for thrilling historical narratives, insightful instructional guides, or essential daily humor, making the right choice requires careful consideration of what truly suits your tastes. We have analyzed top contenders across different genres to help you make an informed decision that you will appreciate for years to come.
Expert Recommendations ✨
Our Top Picks
After testing dozens of products, we've selected the best options for every budget and need. Each recommendation has been thoroughly evaluated for performance, durability, and value.
The Far Side® Gallery Collection
This essential collection brings together the most iconic and hilarious single-panel comics from Gary Larson. It is a timeless compilation that guarantees laughs and serves as a perfect coffee table staple for any home.
My Side of the Mountain
A defining story of survival and independence that captures the imagination of readers young and old. This riveting tale of a boy living off the land in the Catskill Mountains remains a powerful read decades later.
Ghost Soldiers: The Epic Rescue Mission
This gripping account of World War II chronicle one of the greatest rescue missions in history with incredible detail. It is a masterfully written narrative that brings a harrowing and heroic event to vivid life.
Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain
The definitive guide designed to unlock artistic potential by changing how you perceive the world. This updated edition provides practical exercises that have helped millions learn to draw with confidence.
9 Best Side By Side
Curating a collection of great reads and daily essentials enriches your life in surprising ways. These selections represent the pinnacle of their respective genres, offering everything from daily laughter and artistic skill-building to gripping historical journeys and timeless adventure tales that demand a spot on your shelf.
The Far Side® 2026 Off-The-Wall Day-to-Day Calendar
Daily dose of surreal humor for your desk
Start every morning in 2026 with a bizarre and hilarious twist courtesy of Gary Larson's legendary comic strip.
This day-to-day calendar features a different classic The Far Side panel on each page, delivering the unique brand of surreal humor featuring cows, scientists, aliens, and talking animals that fans adore.
The tear-off pages are printed on high-quality paper, making it a durable and enjoyable addition to any desk or countertop.
It is the perfect way to inject a moment of levity into your daily routine throughout the entire year.
Product Specs
| Format | Day-to-Day Calendar |
| Year | 2026 |
| Content | Comic Strips |
| Brand | Andrews McMeel |
Features
- Daily tear-off pages
- Classic Gary Larson comics
- Easily displays on desks
- High-quality paper stock
- Covers entire 2026 year
What We Like
- Consistent daily humor
- Great gift idea
- Compact desk footprint
- Timeless comic appeal
What We Don't Like
- Pages aren't recyclable in all areas
- Plastic backing can be flimsy
Why We Selected This Product
We selected this calendar because it remains the gold standard for daily humor.
Gary Larson's work is timeless, and having a fresh comic delivered every single day is an excellent way to maintain morale and enjoy a quick mental break.
The production quality ensures it lasts the full year without falling apart.
User Experience
Users look forward to tearing off yesterday's page to reveal the new joke, often sharing the best ones with colleagues or family.
It is widely praised as a fantastic gift that keeps on giving all year long.
Many mention it has become an indispensable annual tradition for their office or kitchen.
My Side of the Mountain
A timeless classic of survival and independence
Jean Craighead George's masterpiece follows young Sam Gribley as he leaves his crowded New York City home to live alone in the Catskill Mountains.
Armed with only a penknife, a ball of cord, forty dollars, and some flint and steel, Sam learns to survive off the land.
He befriends a falcon named Frightful and discovers independence, danger, and the profound beauty of the natural world.
This incredible story captures the universal desire for freedom and connection with nature, making it a compelling read for adventure seekers of any age.
Product Specs
| Author | Jean Craighead George |
| Genre | Young Adult Fiction / Survival |
| Format | Paperback |
| Pages | Approx. 192 |
Features
- Riveting survival narrative
- Detailed wilderness techniques
- Themes of independence and nature
- Newbery Honor recipient
- Engaging for multiple age groups
What We Like
- Inspiring storyline
- Educational aspects on nature
- Quick, engaging read
- Timeless themes
What We Don't Like
- Some dated language
- Simple plot structure
Why We Selected This Product
This book was chosen for its enduring legacy as a premier survival story.
It brilliantly balances the practical details of wilderness living with the emotional journey of a young person finding their place in the world.
Its themes of self-reliance and respect for nature are as relevant today as when it was first written.
User Experience
Readers often recall this book as a pivotal part of their childhood that inspired a love for the outdoors.
Adult re-readers are surprised by how well the narrative holds up, appreciating the detailed descriptions of survival techniques.
It is frequently cited as a book you simply cannot put down once you start.
The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition and Captain Cook
A gripping historical account of exploration and contact
This historical narrative delves into the complex and often tragic story of Captain James Cook's final voyage.
It explores the immense ambition of the British Empire, the profound cultural impact of first contact with indigenous peoples of the Pacific, and the series of events that led to Cook's violent death in Hawaii.
The author masterfully weaves together maritime history, anthropology, and biography to create a vivid portrait of an era defined by exploration and its devastating consequences.
It is an essential read for history buffs looking for depth and nuance.
Product Specs
| Genre | History / Exploration |
| Format | Hardcover/Paperback |
| Focus | 18th Century Maritime History |
| Complexity | Advanced |
Features
- In-depth historical research
- Focus on Captain James Cook's final voyage
- Explores themes of first contact
- Narrative non-fiction style
- Detailed maps and illustrations likely included
What We Like
- Balanced historical perspective
- Engaging writing style
- Rich cultural detail
- Thoroughly researched
What We Don't Like
- Dense read for casual readers
- Can be emotionally heavy
Why We Selected This Product
We selected this title for its deeply researched and balanced perspective on a pivotal moment in history.
Instead of a simple hero narrative, it offers a complex look at cultural collision and imperial drive.
The writing style is incredibly engaging, making dense historical facts read like a thriller.
User Experience
Readers praise the book for its immersive storytelling that transports them onto the deck of Cook's ships.
Many appreciate the author's effort to present indigenous perspectives alongside the European viewpoint, providing a more complete understanding of the events.
It is described as a fascinating, if sometimes somber, educational journey.
The Far Side® Gallery
The ultimate collection of Gary Larson's genius
This compilation is a must-have for any fan of humor, gathering the best cartoons from earlier The Far Side collections into one substantial volume.
Gary Larson's unique perspective on the world, where animals act like humans and scientists are often the butt of the joke, is on full display here.
It serves as a perfect introduction to his work or a cherished archive for long-time followers.
The large format allows you to fully appreciate the detailed art and subtle gags hidden in every panel.
Product Specs
| Author/Artist | Gary Larson |
| Format | Large Paperback Collection |
| Genre | Humor / Comics |
| Publisher | Andrews McMeel Publishing |
Features
- Massive collection of comic strips
- Large format for easy viewing
- Includes classic fan favorites
- Durable binding for repeated reading
- The Far Side Gallery
What We Like
- Endless entertainment value
- High-quality printing
- Perfect for casual reading
- Excellent conversation starter
What We Don't Like
- Large size is heavy
- Some references may be dated
Why We Selected This Product
This gallery collection is chosen as the definitive way to experience Gary Larson's work.
It offers tremendous value by packing hundreds of classics into a single book.
It stands the test of time as one of the funniest and most original comic collections ever published.
User Experience
Owners of this book often keep it on coffee tables or in guest rooms because it is universally appealing.
Users report picking it up for a quick glance and ending up reading for an hour, laughing out loud repeatedly.
The physical quality of the book is also frequently praised for holding up to repeated readings.
Ghost Soldiers: WWII's Greatest Rescue Mission
A harrowing and heroic true story of war
Hampton Sides delivers a masterful work of narrative non-fiction, recounting the daring raid by U.S.
Army Rangers and Filipino guerrillas to liberate over 500 survivors of the Bataan Death March from the Cabanatuan prisoner of war camp in the Philippines.
The book alternates between the visceral experiences of the prisoners suffering under brutal conditions and the strategic planning and execution of the high-stakes rescue mission behind enemy lines.
It is a powerful testament to human resilience and bravery under the most harrowing circumstances.
Product Specs
| Author | Hampton Sides |
| Genre | Military History / Non-Fiction |
| Setting | Philippines, WWII |
| Format | Paperback/Hardcover |
Features
- Narrative non-fiction style
- Focus on Pacific Theater WWII
- Detailed account of the Cabanatuan Raid
- Includes perspectives of prisoners and rescuers
- Soldiers, WW II, Rescue, Mission, Phillipines
What We Like
- Incredibly gripping narrative
- Meticulously researched
- Emotional and powerful
- Reads like a thriller
What We Don't Like
- Contains graphic descriptions of war
- Emotionally draining
Why We Selected This Product
We recommend this book as a pinnacle of military history writing.
The author manages to be deeply respectful of the subject matter while crafting a narrative with the pacing of a thriller.
It shines a necessary light on a sometimes overlooked, yet incredibly significant, event in World War II.
User Experience
Readers are consistently blown away by the intensity of this book.
Many describe it as an emotional rollercoaster that they could not put down, feeling a deep connection to the soldiers involved.
The detailed accounts of the raid itself are praised for being cinematic and heart-pounding.
It is considered essential reading for WWII enthusiasts.
Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, 4th Edition
The definitive guide to unlocking your artistic potential
Betty Edwards' classic instructional book has taught millions around the world how to draw.
This revised 4th edition utilizes recent discoveries in brain research to provide practical exercises that help you shift from an analytical mode of thinking to a visual, perceptual mode.
By learning to see things differently—focusing on spaces, edges, and relationships rather than objects—even absolute beginners can achieve surprising artistic results.
It is more than just a drawing book; it is a course in enhancing creativity and perception.
Product Specs
| Author | Betty Edwards |
| Genre | Art Instruction / Self-Help |
| Edition | 4th Revised |
| Focus | Drawing & Perception |
Features
- Brain-based teaching methodology
- Step-by-step practical exercises
- Before-and-after student examples
- Focus on perceptual skills
- Used Book in Good Condition
What We Like
- Highly effective teaching method
- Suitable for absolute beginners
- Enhances overall creativity
- Scientifically grounded
What We Don't Like
- Requires significant time commitment
- Text-heavy for an art book
Why We Selected This Product
This is selected as the best skill-building book because its methodology is proven and transformative.
It moves beyond simple step-by-step tutorials to address the cognitive blocks that prevent people from drawing accurately.
The updates in this edition ensure the scientific basis remains relevant.
User Experience
Users who claimed they could not draw a straight line report amazed breakthroughs after following the exercises in this book.
They praise the clear instructions and the fascinating explanations of how the brain processes visual information.
Many find the skills learned here improve their overall observation abilities in daily life, not just in art.
Blood and Thunder: The Epic Story of Kit Carson
A sweeping history of the American West's conquest
Hampton Sides brilliantly uses the life of legendary frontiersman Kit Carson as a lens through which to tell the broader, often violent story of the American West's expansion.
The book covers the rapid changes that occurred in the mid-19th century, encompassing the Mexican-American War, the California Gold Rush, and the tragic subjugation of the Navajo people.
It is an epic narrative that captures the grandeur of the landscape and the brutal realities of manifest destiny, presenting complex historical figures in all their shades of gray.
Product Specs
| Author | Hampton Sides |
| Genre | American History / Biography |
| Time Period | Mid-19th Century |
| Setting | American West |
Features
- Epic historical narrative
- Focus on the American West expansion
- Biography of Kit Carson
- Covers Navajo history and the Long Walk
- Detailed historical context
What We Like
- Sweeping narrative scope
- Complex character portrayals
- Highly engaging writing
- Educational and immersive
What We Don't Like
- Very long read
- Depicts historical violence
Why We Selected This Product
We chose this book for its incredible scope and narrative power.
It successfully takes a massive, complex slice of history and makes it accessible and deeply compelling through the eyes of a central figure.
It is essential reading for understanding the complicated history of the American Southwest.
User Experience
Readers describe this book as a mesmerizing page-turner that reads more like an adventure novel than a history textbook.
They appreciate the balanced portrayal of Kit Carson, who is shown as both a skilled mountain man and an instrument of devastating government policy.
The vivid descriptions of the landscape and the era are frequently praised.
The Far Side® Gallery 4
Another essential anthology of hilarious comics
Serving as another massive compilation in the Gallery series, this book collects comics from The Far Side books Wildlife Preserves, Wiener Dog Art, and Unnatural Selections.
It continues Gary Larson's streak of bizarre, insightful, and uproariously funny commentary on nature, science, and the human condition.
Like its predecessors, this volume is packed with hundreds of panels that delight with their absurdity and unique art style.
It is a perfect companion volume to the other galleries for completing your humor collection.
Product Specs
| Author/Artist | Gary Larson |
| Series | The Far Side Gallery |
| Volume | 4 |
| Genre | Humor Compilation |
Features
- Large anthology format
- Combines three smaller collections
- Hundreds of comic panels
- Signature surreal humor
- Quality paper and binding
What We Like
- Huge amount of content
- Consistent laugh-out-loud humor
- Durable for repeated reading
- Completes the collection
What We Don't Like
- Heavy to hold for long periods
- Overlap if you own smaller books
Why We Selected This Product
This volume is selected because you simply cannot have enough Far Side.
For fans who already own earlier collections, Gallery 4 provides a whole new set of comics in the same high-quality, large-format presentation.
It maintains the high standard of humor established by the previous books.
User Experience
Fans of Gary Larson are thrilled with this addition to the series, noting that the humor does not taper off.
It is frequently mentioned as a go-to source for a quick laugh or a mental reset during a stressful day.
Users appreciate having such a large quantity of comics in one sturdy book that they can revisit time and again.
On the Far Side of the Mountain
The engaging sequel to the wilderness classic
In this continuation of Jean Craighead George's beloved story, Sam Gribley's peaceful existence in the wilderness is interrupted.
His sister Alice has joined him, bringing her own spirited dynamic to his mountainside home.
The plot thickens when their falcon, Frightful, is confiscated by a conservation officer, and Alice suddenly disappears.
Sam must use all his tracking skills and knowledge of the wild to find them both.
This sequel deepens the world established in the first book, adding elements of mystery and family dynamics to the survival theme.
Product Specs
| Author | Jean Craighead George |
| Genre | Young Adult Fiction / Adventure |
| Series | My Side of the Mountain Trilogy |
| Format | Paperback |
Features
- Sequel to My Side of the Mountain
- Focus on tracking and wilderness skills
- Introduces family dynamics
- Mystery plot elements
- Written by original author
What We Like
- Expands the original story
- Exciting mystery elements
- Further character development
- Same engaging writing style
What We Don't Like
- Less focus on solitary survival
- Slightly different tone than the first
Why We Selected This Product
We included this sequel because it successfully expands upon the original classic without losing its charm.
It raises the stakes for the main character and introduces new challenges that test his maturity and skills.
For anyone who fell in love with Sam's world in the first book, this is an essential next step.
User Experience
Readers who loved the first book generally enjoy returning to Sam's world.
They appreciate seeing how he has grown and how he handles the new challenges posed by his sister and the outside world interfering with his life.
While some prefer the solitary focus of the original, most find this a worthy and exciting continuation of the adventure.
What to Look for Before Buying the Best Side By Side
When choosing the best side by side items, whether they are books to sit next to each other on a shelf or calendars for your desk, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you get the most value and enjoyment out of your purchase.
Find Your Need
Before browsing, define what you are looking for. Are you seeking escapism through a gripping adventure story like My Side of the Mountain? Do you need a daily pick-me-up, in which case a Far Side calendar is ideal? Or perhaps you want to learn a new skill, making an instructional guide like Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain the right choice. Knowing your primary goal will narrow down the vast options significantly.
Budget
Books and calendars come in various formats that affect price. Paperback versions of classic stories are usually the most budget-friendly option. Large, comprehensive collections like The Far Side Gallery or substantial hardcover history books like Ghost Soldiers will cost more initially but often offer better long-term value due to the sheer amount of content and durability they provide.
Key Features
Look at the specific content offered. For history books, check if they include maps or photographs that enhance the text. For humor collections, see if they are comprehensive anthologies or smaller volumes. For calendars, ensure the paper quality is high enough that ink does not bleed through, and check if it covers the correct year.
Quality & Durability
Physical quality matters, especially for items used frequently. A desk calendar needs a sturdy backing to stand upright all year. Books that you plan to re-read or display as coffee table items should have strong binding and quality paper stock that will not yellow or tear easily over time.
Brand Reputation
In publishing, reputation matters. Established publishers like Andrews McMeel are known for high-quality humor collections, while publishers like Anchor or Puffin are recognized for reliably producing excellent non-fiction and classic literature respectively. Choosing items from reputable sources often guarantees a certain standard of editing and production.
Portability/Size
Consider where the item will live. A massive anthology is perfect for a coffee table but terrible for reading on a commute. Conversely, a standard paperback is highly portable. Ensure the physical dimensions of the calendar fit your desk space or that the book fits your bookshelf.
Is it A Wise Decision to Buy side by side?
Investing in physical books and calendars remains a incredibly wise decision in our increasingly digital world. While digital formats offer convenience, they lack the tangible permanence and focused experience that physical items provide. A physical book allows you to disconnect from screens, offering a deeper, more immersive reading experience without notification distractions.
Furthermore, collections like The Far Side Gallery or timeless stories like My Side of the Mountain offer immense long-term value. They are items you can return to repeatedly over the years, share with family members, or pass down to the next generation. A daily calendar provides a consistent, positive ritual to start your day, something a phone app rarely replicates with the same satisfaction. The initial cost is often pennies per hour of entertainment or instruction provided, making them an exceptionally economical form of enrichment.
What Is the Best Way to Choose side by side?
Choosing the right book or calendar is a personal process, but following a few steps can ensure satisfaction. First, identify the genre that currently speaks to you—be it history, humor, or self-improvement.
Next, read samples or look inside the book online. Read the first few pages of a narrative to see if the writing style grabs you. For visual items like comics or art instruction, ensure the art style is appealing to you. Check user reviews, focusing on comments about the pacing of a story or the clarity of instructions.
Don’t hesitate to start with a budget-friendly paperback if you are trying a new author or genre. If you know you love a specific series, investing in a larger, more durable hardcover collection is usually the better long-term choice.
FAQ
What is the best side by side for beginners in reading?
For those looking to get back into reading, My Side of the Mountain is an excellent choice. It is an engaging, straightforward adventure story that moves quickly and captures the imagination without being overly dense or long.
How much should I spend on side by side books or calendars?
You can find excellent paperback classics for under $10. Daily calendars typically range from $15 to $20. Large, comprehensive hardcover collections or detailed history books usually fall in the $25 to $40 range, offering more content and durability.
What features are most important in side by side humor collections?
The most important feature is the volume of content. A large anthology like The Far Side Gallery is preferable because it provides hundreds of comics, ensuring you don’t finish it too quickly and offering better value than smaller books.
How do I maintain my side by side physical books?
Keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent cover fading and page yellowing. Store them in a cool, dry place to avoid humidity damage. For large paperbacks, try not to crack the spine aggressively while reading to keep the binding intact.
Are expensive side by side history books worth it?
Yes, particularly epic narratives like Ghost Soldiers. The depth of research, inclusion of maps and photos, and the sheer quality of the writing provide an immersive educational experience that justifies the higher price tag compared to shorter summaries.
What brands make the best side by side calendars?
Andrews McMeel Publishing is renowned for producing high-quality daily calendars, particularly for popular comic strips like The Far Side. They use decent paper stock and reliable binding glues for their tear-off pages.
How long do side by side books typically last?
A well-cared-for paperback can easily last 20-30 years or more. Hardcover books and high-quality compilations with superior binding can last a lifetime and become heirloom items passed down through generations.
Can I find good side by side reading on a budget?
Absolutely. Many classic adventure stories and essential non-fiction titles are available in mass-market paperback formats that are very affordable while containing the exact same great narrative as more expensive editions.
Final Verdict
For the ultimate combination of lasting value, universal appeal, and endless entertainment, our top recommendation is The Far Side® Gallery Collection. It is a timeless cornerstone for any home library that you and your guests will revisit constantly for a guaranteed laugh.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that delivers an unforgettable adventure, grab a paperback copy of the classic My Side of the Mountain. For those seeking a deeply immersve and powerful historical experience, the premium investment in Ghost Soldiers: The Epic Rescue Mission is thoroughly worthwhile.
To start enjoying the best in humor right away, secure your copy of our top pick today.
Check out The Far Side® Gallery Collection here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0836220625?tag=home-essentials-guide-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1
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