When I started out, books were my nemisis. Tablatures were impossible to figure out, and I didn't have a very good grounding in what clawhammer should sound like. I like listening and seeing at the same time. So the tape/book combination was the one that worked best for me. I still think Homespun Tapes is the best thing going, if they're still in business. I haven't gotten a recent catalogue in a few years.