Cash gifts are a no-brainer for high school or college graduates. But Derek Blasberg, the 28-year-old author of the new book "Classy: Exceptional Advice for the Extremely Modern Lady" (Razorbill, $16.99) warns that recipients may not benefit in the manner intended. "Often, before they know it (and probably before they write a thank-you note, tsk tsk), that money will be spent," he wrote in an e-mail. "Maybe think about buying this person a stock, or at the very least writing a check, so it won't immediately turn into a tip for the cute bartender."

Cash also doesn't look particularly imaginative, Blasberg says. Instead, he suggests more personal gifts. Here are some options.

--Wendy Donahue, Tribune Newspapers