Recommended printed books to learn indesign

[johnw68229778]

I'm old school.  I learn better and quicker by reading and outlining than watching tutorial videos.  Formerly, programs came with a small phonebook size user manual to learn the program.  Sadly, this in no longer the case.  Can someone recommend a printed publication which can be obtained going from A - to Z covering indesign?  It doesn't have to be free.  Just something I can highlight, stick postem-notes on the top of pages, and keep cloe for reference.

Thanks  John

[David Popham]

Obviously, this is subjective, but the best book when I was learning InDesign was Real World InDesign. Very thorough with very clear explanations and visuals. Unfortunately, it hasn't been updated since the first version of InDesign CC, so it would be missing several added features since then, but as far as the basics that are still relevant and for gaining an understanding of how things work in InDesign, it does a great job. I would recommend combining that with a current title. However, I'm not very familiar with recent InDesign books, as I still sometimes refer to RW InDesign then use videos and Adobe's Help pages to get up-to-speed on new features. I'm sure others can chime in on more recent titles.

[Derek Cross · Accepted solution]

I'd recommend the Classroom in a Book series, they include printed and ebook versions and onscreen video sample demonstrations: 

https://www.peachpit.com/store/adobe-indesign-classroom-in-a-book-2020-release-9780136502678

Here's the publisher's blurb:

Creative professionals seeking the fastest, easiest, most comprehensive way to learn Adobe InDesign choose Adobe InDesign Classroom in a Book (2020 release) from Adobe Press. The project-based step-by-step lessons show users the key techniques for working in InDesign. Designers will build a strong foundation of typographic, color, page layout, and document-construction skills that will enable them to produce a broad range of print and digital publications—from a simple postcard to an interactive Adobe PDF with form fields. The real-world tasks in this comprehensive book are presented in easy-to-follow lessons and are designed to train beginning Adobe InDesign users in the program—from fundamental features to powerful layout and output skills. 
The online companion files include all the necessary assets for readers to complete the projects featured in each lesson. All buyers of the book get full access to the Web Edition: A Web-based version of the complete ebook enhanced with video and multiple-choice quizzes. 

[BobLevine · Accepted solution]

I have a list on my website: https://boblevinedesign.com/creative-professional-books/

But for a beginner, The Visual Quick Start Guide is the first one I would buy.