Finance books for the cheapskate, hard-to-buy-for and saver on your list

Many of us learn about money through costly trial and error. But there are easier ways. Consider the ever-growing supply of personal finance books, which seem to multiply like wet Gremlins each year.  For the cheapskate on your list: “America’s Cheapest Family Gets you Right on the Money,” by Steve and Annette Economides. Yes, that’s their real name (it means “son of the steward” in Greek). The family shares its tried-and-true strategies for spending less.

Armed with two carts, walkie talkies, and a boatload of coupons, the Economides make one massive grocery run per month. The monthly food tab? Only $350, or $50 per person.