There are countless books on project management available these days.   How do you pick the right one to start with?  At the end of the day it is your call.  Still, I can recommend the following books:

Eric Verzuh:  The Fast Forward MBA in Project Management

The Fast Forward MBA in Project Management is designed as an advanced textbook for businesspeople with a grasp of the basics and insufficient time (or inclination) to go back to school to learn more. […] this is not a heavy academic text.

Gregory T. Haugan:  Project Management Fundamentals:  Key Concepts and Methodology

Project Management Fundamentals takes the mystery out of project management through a step-by-step, detailed approach. Filled with practical examples of project management methodology, tools, and techniques, this book will help you manage projects successfully, no matter the size or complexity.

Gregory T. Haugan:  Project Planning and Scheduling

This is the only book that makes all planning methods and tools available to project managers at all levels easy to understand … and use. Instead of applying techniques piecemeal, you’ll take a cohesive, step-by-step approach to improve strategic and operational planning and scheduling throughout the organization. You’ll master advanced scheduling techniques and tools such as strategic planning models and critical chain and enterprise project management. Includes time-and-error-saving checklists.

You could supplement it with Greg’s latest book, Work Breakdown Structures for Projects, Programs, and Enterprises.

Kathy Schwalbe:  Introduction to Project Management, 2nd Edition

Best-selling author Kathy Schwalbe’s Introduction to Project Management offers a general yet concise introduction to project management. This book provides up-to- date information on how good project, program, and portfolio management can help you achieve organizational success. It includes over 50 samples of tools and techniques applied to one large project, and is suitable for all majors, including business, engineering, healthcare, and more. This text uses a chronological approach to project management, with detailed explanations and examples for initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing projects.

Neal Whitten: Neal Whitten’s No-Nonsense Advice for Successful Projects

If you have already have experience in project management, this is a must-have book.  Whitten takes on common questions from everyday project management and shares his insights.  It is right on the money.  I highly recommend this book.

Timothy J. Kloppenborg, Arthur Shriberg, Jayashree Venkatraman:  Project Leadership

Yes, there is a difference between project management and project leadership.  If you want to know what it takes to become a project leader, have a look at this book.