I dont have a any good books but the basics are as such:
1) Learn what color the metal needs to be for what you intend to do. There is such a thing as TOO hot
2) Get some barstock and practice. Can you make a knife blade? Start doing the basic shapes (we're not talking something you plan on using here). My first project to "get the feel for it" was a spear head.
3) The next step (and I argue, the hardest to pick up) is forging two pieces of metal together. Adding that hook to the main pole of a coat rack, for example, is much harder than merely beating the hook alone into shape.
Once you get past the basics is when you really need help... be it a tutor or specialized books.
Don't forget proper ventilation, good gloves, apron, etc. Don't skimp on equipment!
- BG
(I am in no way a professional blacksmith. It was merely a hobby for a few years.)