But they are a bit on the expensive side. OK if you've done the math and are happy with the results, but I do caution that they are not a magic money tree.
We can agree that they are not a magic money tree 
"expensive" is relative. I have yet to find anyone else willing to ship same-day (i.e. non-group-buy) that can beat my price. In fact, most on BitMit/eBay are DOUBLE my price ... and they still sell! I've been damn tempted to raise my prices but I believe in a greater good - in something more than just making a quick buck and disappearing. Hopefully my actions have shown that!
Also, other than AM Block Erupter blades (which may be more efficient, but even just one is out of most price ranges, as is clearly the case for the OP), I can't think of a single other ASIC that is shipping (defined as: you pay and have it before difficulty changes!). So when people say these are expensive, I always ask "show me another apple to compare it to" and they really can't. It's different than stocks or preorders, it's a tangible good that you can plug in and mine with!
I view them as springboards ... launching users into the rabbit hole we call bitcoin mining! Small price to pay to gain that interest and experience!
TL:DR - I don't know what he envisions his investment will look like. If he envisions it as a learning experience with hands on activity rather than buying some shares and sitting back, I can't imagine a better option than these erupters. And I'd be happy to help him get there (or there are group buys, ebay, bitmit, etc).
I really am glad there are senior members around here though to advise newer users - so many scammers running rampant - turns my stomach.