It's difficult to imagine a better investment of $10 than the spring/summer 2011 issue of Twin Cities' Consumers' Checkbook. It's packed with money-saving comparisons of Twin Cities doctors, roofers, homeowner's insurance companies, supermarkets, computer repair services, dry cleaners and auto detailers.

Few sources compile as many consumer ratings as Checkbook. When comparing homeowners insurance firms, for example, it lists the number of complaints per company as well as policyholders' and contractors' ratings.

One example from this issue: With the weather becoming more unpredictable and destructive, it's important to get coverage from a company that doesn't deny or delay claims. The following homeowner's insurance companies had fewer than the average number of complaints in 2007-09: Chubb, Fireman's Fund, Amica, USAA, State Farm and Travelers, according to the Minnesota Department of Commerce. These had higher than average complaints: Homesite, Horace Mann, Allstate and Ameriprise.

Other gems include a computer repair shop highly rated for low prices and high quality (it's not Geek Squad) and eight roofers check-rated for quality. Checkbook found that high quality doesn't have to mean high prices. It found some roofers charging $4,800 more than other roofers for the same work.

Bottom line: It's a time and money saver. Available at Barnes & Noble, Borders, Checkbook (651-646-2057 or www.checkbook.org) and public libraries (free).

Consumer Reports for womenAnother worthy advertisement-free consumer publication is ShopSmart ($5 on newsstands or free in libraries). The magazine looks like Consumer Reports with a Botox treatment. Younger and fresher, it appeals mostly to women.

Some of the content is repackaged from Consumer Reports, including a nice roundup of household cleaners in the April issue. Top spots went to Cerama Bryte smooth-top stove cleaner ($4.48), Stainless Steel Magic stainless steel cleaner ($4.99), Finish Powerball dishwasher detergent and Pledge Fabric Sweeper ($5.59) as a portable pet hair cleaner.

For green cleaners, the mag liked Nature's Source all-purpose ($3.19), Greenworks natural Bathroom Cleaner ($3), Costco's Kirkland Signature Environmentally Friendly Ultra 2X HE ($13) and Seventh Generation toilet bowl cleaner ($4).

Check out the eight pages devoted to the how and where to buy shoes women love. Nine sites beyond the obvious DSW and Zappos are highlighted, including a Kardashian's shoe-of-the-month club. Now those are two words I never expected to see in a Consumer Reports publication: Kim Kardashian.

John Ewoldt • 612-673-7633 or jewoldt@startribune.com. If you spot a deal, share it at www.startribune.com/dealspotter.