Here are threads (and a forum) listing some books that beginners should check out:
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/showthread.php?t=2028
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/showthread.php?t=19211
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/forumdisplay.php?f=184
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/showthread.php?t=2028
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/showthread.php?t=19211
http://www.hobby-machinist.com/forumdisplay.php?f=184