...Hi Mayfield, I'm also really new to street rods and for what I'M interested in building I really liked this book; Builders Guide To Bolt-Together Street Rods, by Bruce Caldwell. I went over to Barnes & Noble several times and spent HOURS reading a bunch of street rod books. Ended up buying a couple of 'em {including the one you mentioned}. But I think that for MY needs the particular book that I mentioned above was the best {by Bruce Caldwell}. When I say "MY needs" I mean for what I'm doing. Which is having a roller package built for me and then I'm going to finish off doing what I'm capable of {& feel like} doing. The reason that I highlighted the 'I' , 'I'M' & 'MY' is that this book fit MY needs but it might not fit yours. What are you planning on building??? Plus this web site is invaluable for info.... just my 2 cents.... Bill....