Making a Habit Of Generosity

The goal should be to open the door to a lifetime of giving, Sabin said.

I've recommended "Guide to Charitable Giving" because the more you know about charitable giving, the better a giver you become. There's no preaching in this book. It's just the facts, ma'am. You'll learn about charitable gift annuities, trusts and bequests. The authors also provide guidance on tax-deductible and non-deductible contributions.

"Every time there is a disaster . . . there is renewed interest in charitable giving," said Capassakis, a member of PricewaterhouseCoopers' firm. "To the extent that it helps people navigate the charitable-giving rules, this book is important."

"Guide to Charitable Giving" covers lots of tax ground. Most people know there is a tax advantage to giving. But many donors aren't always clear on the tax rules for their contributions. This book has mercifully short and well-explained chapters and appendices on the deductibility of charitable donations.

"When people give to charity, it is usually from a philanthropic perspective first and from a tax and financial perspective second," Capassakis said. "Given the primary motivation to do the most good within their means, people should plan their giving to maximize the tax advantages, thereby maximizing their contribution. After all, the government provides tax benefits as an incentive to make charitable contributions, so why not take advantage of these benefits?"

Both of these books are available online and in major and independent bookstores. Sabin's book can also be bought at the author's Web site, http://www.wateringcanpress.com/ , where bulk-order discounts are available for schools, youth groups and other organizations. On Sabin's site, teachers can find a free guide with recommended lesson plans and activities on giving.

If you are interested in discussing "The Giving Book," join me at noon Sept. 22 on http://www.washingtonpost.com/ . Sabin will be my guest and will be available to take your questions.

To become a member of the Color of Money Book Club, all you have to do is read the recommended book and chat online with the author and me. In addition, every month I randomly select readers to receive a copy of the book, donated by the publisher.

For a chance to win a copy of "Guide to Charitable Giving" or "The Giving Book," send an e-mail to colorofmoney@washpost.com . Please include your name and an address so we can send you a book if you win, and indicate which book you want. Only one book request per e-mail entry, please.

· On the air: Michelle Singletary discusses personal finance Tuesdays on NPR's "Day to Day" program and online athttp://www.npr.org.

· By mail: Readers can write to her at The Washington Post, 1150 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20071.

· By e-mail:singletarym@washpost.com.

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