Bob;
While your at Radio Shack, take a look at "Police Call". The
first section is a basic explanation of VHF- UHF and Trunking
two-way radio. Its a nice supplement to ham radio books
and you will get a frequency guide for your area of the
country. Left over" 2003 Police Call's may be on clearance!
Jim

Bob wrote:

Can anyone please recommend one reasonably current good book for a novice
to learn more about the radio hobby in general?

For instance, a little radio frequency theory, some basic antenna
discussion, maybe some coverage of amateur bands, etc.

Something technical enough to be a good shelf reference.

Thanx,
Bob