Hi Dana I never read a book on candlemaking, I just read these forums and other forums. Don't be scared about attemping to make your first candle... You need patience , expect fustration and mistakes (its only normal) Then if you keep following through on advice from others and your own intuitions & allow yourself patience you will get great satisfaction from your candles. (even the candlemaking pro's still come across frustion from time to time)Candlemaking isn't easy by far ,theres alot of testing involved but very rewarding and who knows this time next year you could be giving candles to family and friends for the holidays.:highfive: Good Luck and when you do make your first candle then post a pic for us to see!