Mystery Authors and Giant Yodas

Penny-pinchers can find a variety of ways to maintain and entertain their families this week, with options to satisfy bookworms, LEGO lovers, game enthusiasts, prom queens and those in desperate need of a massage.

Deal: with mystery novelists Cara Black and Libby Hellman. Free refreshments will also be provided.

Good through: Discussion panel runs from noon to 1pm today

• Hillsdale Mall in San Mateo

Deal: Kids of all ages can help a construct an eight-foot tall Yoda statue in the middle of the mall.

Good through: Building commences Friday morning and continues all weekend, with a finished product expected by Sunday.

• GameStop in Tanforan

Deal: Save $20 when buying Halo Reach and Fable III (normally priced $59.99), and take $10 off selected World of Warcraft and Star Wars games.

Good through: This Friday, March 18

• Serramonte Center in Daly City

Deal: Free prom fashion show featuring styles available at the mall in the Grand Court. First 100 attendees to reach the Information Center will receive free gift bags, and everyone in attendance can enter to win a $500 mall shopping spree.

Good through: Show takes place this Saturday, March 19, at 2pm. Arrive at 1:30pm for a chance at a free gift bag.

• Voila La Familia Massage Services in San Francisco

Deal: Pay $50 for $100 worth of therapeutic massage for parents, kids and even infants at this family-oriented massage studio. Voila La Familia also offers in-home and in-hospital services.

Good through: Deal must be purchased by midnight Saturday. Buyers have until September 21 to redeem this deal.