Sure, the Internet can provide a lot of help when you're starting a new hobby (here at About.com, you can ask questions on the knitting forum to get help with any problems you may be having) but there's still just something about a book to help you understand and get into a new hobby.
When I was learning to knit again after college, I used Debbie Bliss' How to Knit book to refresh my memory. That's a great one because it goes through all the basics from knitting and purling and basic stitch patterns to shaping, Aran sweaters and colorwork, and each lesson has a pattern you can practice with to hone your skills. (This is a pretty popular format these days, as seen with the Fearless Knitting Workbook and the forthcoming Jil Eaton's Knitting School.)
Beyond the learn to knit sort of books, there are other good books to have on hand for reference. If you're going to stick to your knitting, a book on fixing mistakes is invaluable (I like Knit Fix). A good knitting reference book like Knitting in Plain English or Vogue Knitting: The Ultimate Knitting Book (which I've somehow failed to review to this point but it's really great) is handy to have.
There are many wonderful books of knitting tips out there, but if you want to feel like you know a lot about knitting, read Lily Chin's Knitting Tips and Tricks. She's so clever, she'll make you feel clever, too.
Seasoned knitters, what are some of your favorite books to recommend to new knitters? What book do you wish you had when you were learning? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
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