"Jennie" wrote in message
...
What book best prepares you for the test and what test do I need to take
to
get started in ham radio?

Where are you located? I'll assume you are in the U.S., and this answer
applies only there. I would recommend "Now You're Talking!", which is
published by the American Radio Relay League. You can purchase one at most
Barnes & Noble stores (at least in my area you can) or online from the ARRL
direct, http://tinyurl.com/57769 . This book has everything you need to
know to take the Element 2 (technician) exam. Make sure you get the 5th
edition, which contains the newest test question pool.

Jackie