This is not the time to go crazy with your book budget, which is why I’ve put together this list of books that range in cost from less than a candy bar to a little more than a venti Frappuccino that’s been all gussied up with extras. (Apparently my sweet tooth is writing this post.)

Due to my own limitations, the list leans heavily toward sci fi, humor, and horror titles, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find similar great deals in other genres. And if you find them, please let me know so I can share the info with readers.

(NB: Amazon may change the prices at any time, so I am listing the current price next to each link; if, when you click through, you see a higher price, it’s because Amazon has increased it since 8 December 2008.)

Under $1
I, Robot by Isaac Asimov ($0.35)

Under $2
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie ($1.25)

Carrie by Stephen King ($1.75)

The Talisman by Stephen King and Peter Straub ($1.99)

Under $3
Night Shift by Stephen King ($2.50)

The Shining by Stephen King ($2.50)

Foundation, Second Foundation, and Foundation and Empire by Isaac Asimov ($2.50-2.75)

The Stand by Stephen King ($2.95)

Neuromancer by William Gibson ($2.95)

Under $4
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett ($3.32)

Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris ($3.71)

Special note: If you’re a fan of Frank Herbert’s Dune series, you can find many of them on the Kindle store for $4 or less.

Under $5
Dead Until Dark (Southern Vampire Mysteries, Book 1) by Charlaine Harris ($4.79)

Under $6
Dave Barry Is Not Taking This Sitting Down! by Dave Barry ($5.59)

(Photo: ginnerobot)