Question for you photographers....

Well, two questions actually....

1. What kind of camera do you use and what would you recommend for a beginner? (I really want to go with Canon, but if you think something else is better, lay it on me.)

2. Is there a good book or something that I can get to help me get started? (I already love taking pics, and I'd like to think I have a decent eye for it, but I need to learn about settings and all that I suppose.)

Thanks!