HI Michael,
I really like the book A Timberframer's Workshop, by Steve Chappell. He goes through joints and where to put them. He puts a strong emphasis on math and cutting things right the first time. I like Benson's first couple books and Jack Sobon is great, too. But for me, as a real neophyte, I've gotten the most out of Chappell's book. The trig section didn't quite explain it for me the first time, but with a little help, I figured it out and have come to like trig, even depend on it.
There are a number of great books, and in the absence of great teachers, several books are good for differing perspectives. Happy reading.
Zach
