A Teen Girl's Guide to Managing Wealth

"I guess it's important to learn this stuff now so when you grow up to be an adult, you already have a concept on how to use your money," Olivia said after reading the book.

I wanted to hug her after that comment. But I knew better.

Every month I randomly select readers to receive the recommended book, donated by the publisher. This month I want to do something a little different. I'd like to limit the giveaway to teen girls who submit a brief essay -- 200 words or less -- on why it's important to save. If you're an educator or community leader who works with girls, this would be a great project. The entries for a free copy of "The Teen Girl's Gotta-Have-It Guide to Money" should be sent to colorofmoney@washpost.com. All e-mails should include the teen's name, age and mailing address. With a parent's permission, I may also print some of the answers.

Each month, as part of the book club, I also invite the author or authors to join me online to talk to readers. Blatt and Paladino will be available to answer questions at noon Sept. 25 at http://www.washingtonpost.com.

· On the air: Michelle Singletary discusses personal finance Tuesdays on NPR's "Day to Day" program and 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.

Comments and questions are welcome, but because of the volume of mail, personal responses are not always possible. Please note that comments or questions may be used in a future column, with the writer's name, unless a specific request to do otherwise is indicated.