Book and/or online photo class recommendations?

[JClishe]

Does anyone have any recommendations for any "must read" photography books? I'm looking for sort of an entry-level how-to book that talks about various types of photography: landscape, portraits, architecture, etc. I looked briefly at a National Geographic field guide that appeared to be what I was looking for, but I didn't have time to look at it closely.

Also, I've been thinking about taking NYIP's Intro to digital photography course. Anyone have any experience with it? I have a friend that's currently taking their pro course and he really likes it.

Jason