Looking for good photography book and poss deals on entry-level SLRs

bluep

My neice has decided that she wants to take up photography for a hobby and has asked for christmas presents to do with this. We'd like to get her a decent book on beginners photography that goes through types of film, exposure, apeture etc... she's an intelligent lass but I don't want something SO technical that it isn't fun to go through, on the other hand, she's 21 so it needs to be quite in depth rather than a really simple book. Any recommendations? Sourcing it isn't a problem - amazon etc... but just really what title to get. Cheaper the better LOL - somewhere around £20-£25.

Also, has anyone spotted any good deals on SLR packages around? I'm sure there are some bargains somewhere as the world goes digital. I've been through the pros and cons of digital v traditional photography and as her computer situation isn't great, she really wants to stick with negatives and transparancies. The Nikon Fwhatever that Argos is doing for £199 looks relatively decent but if anyone knows where it is on special offer, or has the twin lense kit then please let me know! Or if there are any alternatively that you'd recommend. Been years since I've looked into buying anything - happy with my F601 and digital Fujifilm F410.