Not quite a novel - starter book on gardening

Astraeus

As the summer rolls around, I have decided to make 2012 the year that I begin to learn how to maintain, and develop, a garden. I am without a base at the moment, however, and I'd like some reading to get me inspired and give me the feeling that I know a little before I dirty my fingernails.

I was thinking of an absolute starters book. Has anyone experience of RHS' Gardening Month by Month or the totemic RHS Encyclopaedia of Gardening? Something which introduces me to the effect of the seasons and the basics of gardening as well as inspiring me to know more would be ideal.

Thank y'all.

littlesheepy

What about nipping to your local library and borrowing a couple? Cheaper than buying and you can borrow or nosy through a couple and see which suits you best. Can always then buy one knowing it'll be useful