Jack Bogle: The Undisputed Champion of the Long Run

Latched onto Vanguard Funds when I was 23 haven't looked back. Combination of low fees and getting averages has worked out well.

Key thing is to put money in every time you have a chance (and even when you don't). The long term of growth makes a difference even for small amounts. If you have a child in your circle consider getting an account open for them. Rather than that shirt or toy you were going give, put that money in the account.