silentbicycle also recommended the Little Schemer books. But for me personally, while they may work for you or someone else... I found that they didn't work for

silentbicycle also recommended the Little Schemer books. But for me personally, while they may work for you or someone else... I found that they didn't work for me. Not to say that I have a weight problem, but I love food and food is the theme throughout these books. I like to watch my weight and my sense of control with food is not that stellar; and about three-quarters of the way through the book I realized I wasn't going to make it through to the end or with the sequel: Seasoned Schemer. The food they use to bring their concepts full circle just don't do it for me. Thus, I'm yet another one for SICP or PG's book. I always recommend Applications Programming in ANSI C by Johnsonbaugh if you're interested in learning C. It's got a great scientific and engineering theme. While I'm not sure about your area of the world, I know that in my area books at the bricks & mortar stores are ridiculously expensive. Thus, I always do my book buying at places like Amazon and I suggest you do too.. especially if the book you're looking for in the Borders store doesn't carry your desired book. I find the stores like Barnes & Noble to be great places for eye candy... exploring the books they have, sitting in their comfy chairs and making notes on the books I'm going to buy online later. :) Best of luck to you!