I'm a beginner at spinning and I've found this book very helpful. The author assumes you know nothing, and provides enough information to cover each topic thoroughly without giving you too much to ponder. Thus the book is not too big, but just big enough. Chapters include Using the Hand Spindle, Spinning Wheels, Spinning on the Wheel, Fiber Preparations, Drafting and Spinning Techniques, Plying, and Finishing, and more. The hand spindle section was very clear--I picked it up right away, and still very much love that form of spinning. There are numerous diagrams and color photos in this book, plus many projects to start you off. If you are new to spinning this is probably the best book to begin with.