If I had to suggest only one book, it would probably be "Photography" by London and Upton (they're probably up the 8th or 9th edition by now). This book is probably used by more photography classes than any other and there's a reason. Solid information put together well and is written with the beginner in mind. I'd also recommend after reading it - at least the last 2 as they give better coverage of what "proper" exposure is and more in depth understanding of filters and what they do: - "The Camera", "The Negative" and "The Print" (the excellent 3 book Ansel Adams series that you mention) - "Understanding Exposure" by Bryan Peterson (I think it was just updated to include digital cameras) - "Photographer's Guide to Filters" by Lee Frost