Books are right for some, but not for others. I agree with Jack on CSS Anthology, it's a very good book for beginners.

The whole book is a tale of progress, each section laying out a task, then achieving the task, explaining why you are doing what along the way. Plus it doesn't bore you with the details, but stresses what you need to know and the concept behind CSS.

Plus it's a bargain at the Book Depository, who I have used and very happy with.