A lot of the most useful knowledge comes from trial and error. But there are some great starting places that don't require you investing and losing capital. A friend of mine took a class at a local small business resource center. They had some affordable yet excellect classes that taught all kinds of different aspects of starting your own small business. I would check with any local places like that, or near-by community colleges. Other than that, the best thing you can do is find a successful entrepenuer to be your mentor. There is no better way to learn the tricks of the trade than having somebody who is knowledgable in that area of expertise. Even offering to work for somebody like that, just as a part time job, is a great way to begin such a mentor-apprentice relationship. Watch them closely, ask as many questions as you can, and learn all you can. I would recommend the above techniques instead of any book.