I first bought the OS X Lion for DUMMIES. It didn't answer the questions that I had. I spent some time reading reviews on Amazon, and looking my questions up in the Lion books in Barnes and Noble. I found the best answers in The Mac OS X Lion Pocket Guide. It is a relatively small book, inexpensive enough that I bought it. Surprisingly, it has answered almost all the questions/problems I've had. The index, (possibly the most important part of any reference book), is excellent, thus my answers have been quickly found. Knowing the answers, I've again examined some of the larger books and find the indices generally not adequate, and the information not concise like in the little pocket guide.
I like to know a lot about subjects I'm interested in, so I'll eventually buy one of the larger books. I do want to make it clear that my experience and choice in choosing the book I did suits me just fine, but of course it's not the perfect tool; it may not be the best choice for you, the reader. I'd suggest you write down some of your questions and look them up in the books at your bookstore. You are then better able to find the one that satisfies you. I, incidentally, would very much like to read about your experiences / choices in this forum. I would benefit from them when looking for my 'big book'.
I like to know a lot about subjects I'm interested in, so I'll eventually buy one of the larger books. I do want to make it clear that my experience and choice in choosing the book I did suits me just fine, but of course it's not the perfect tool; it may not be the best choice for you, the reader. I'd suggest you write down some of your questions and look them up in the books at your bookstore. You are then better able to find the one that satisfies you. I, incidentally, would very much like to read about your experiences / choices in this forum. I would benefit from them when looking for my 'big book'.