I bought Bryce 5  and all later versions as downloads. First time I printed out the manual and read it - that gave me serious headache and I read a lot of tutorials...

Then I started using the forum for help and soon after, the RenderGods chat. That worked out perfectly for me. All I know, I learned from this forum and the chat :)

IMO, manuals are good, tutorials are better, forums are best.

I don't have Kitchen's book - but I do have "The bryce 3D Handbook". Didn't really use it though...

Come join the Rendergods!