I started to learn banjo (5-string) from a book by Pete Seeger@ half sister Peggy (I believe she lives in the uk.) It was the best one for my money and I also tried ones by Pete Seeger himself, Bill Keith, and one endorsed by the Kingston Trio, also one by Jimmy Kelly (Irish) and a monster called,I think I'm right, All about Bluegrass Banjo. You will probably find that you get something from every book as they add to your understanding (confusion ?)

Go for it the world badly needs a new Earl.