That great.
Is there by any Chance a DHL post Office near you? DHL is very safe and uncomplicated.
I´ve checked the Prize for a max. 2 kg package from Germany to USA with extra tracking number option and it would cost 15,89 €.
Additionally to this, you just Need to fill the CN 22 form for customs, because when you fill he CN 23 I´ll Need to pay extra customs for the custom Office.
To avoid stealing and other Problems, I think it would be best to fill in:
Gift
content: book
weight: 0,5 kg
value: 25,00 €/or USD
Everything else, exept date and signature, can stay void.