Carpentry and Woodworking - books for beginners

I have been a long time fan of Norm Abram and his "New Yankee Workshop". I am sure that I am not the only one with ambitions to become half the carpenter he is. I am the ultimate beginner in carpentry, I know some of the basics just from watching New Yankee Workshop, but that is giving myself the benefit of the doubt. I would really like to get into woodworking with some know how as i have already lined up an entertainment center and bed for myself. I have been searching for books that give me the basics I need but there are so many of them to chose from. I would like to know if anyone has a favorite or can direct me to the right place. I would really like to know my tools, cuts, and where the best place to apply them would be. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Dan

try the public library , ours has tons of books on the subject.

also check out taunton press they publish the best in my opion

http://www.taunton.com/finewoodworking/store/