Programming and Customizing the Basic Stamp Computer by Scott Edwards. Scott shouldn't need an introduction to Stamp or PIC users. His Applications and Projects in US magazines are frequent and very well written. Suitable background in electronics is given for the book to be used as a textbook, yet the approach is that of a helpful cookbook. Going beyond the PC, the important topic of microcontrollers is addressed.
Software is included in source code form on disk, an added bonus.
Reading this book won't get you an EE degree but it might be the next best thing. Internet Guide to the Electronics Industry by John Adams Paperback John won equal first prize in the Dontronics Logo contest. You can see his entry on the bottom of our home page. It's the one with the map of Australia. Richard Grier clearly has a wealth of experience in programming serial communications, and in this book he shares his knowledge with readers.