That is almost like saying what is the best smoker...lots of answers. Meathead's book is a pretty good one. I don't own it but have got it from the library. Depending on what you like, and what region of BBQ you are looking, there are several. I like Stephen Raichlens multiple books, and Aaron Franklin's BBQ Manifesto. I also get recipes from smoking-meat.com and HowToBBQRight.com among othe places. A lot of different TV and Online videos you can lose yourself in!
You don't need a book when you have all of the knowledge from the members here.
I do like Aaron Franklin's book. Steven Raichlen's BBQ Bible has been around forever and is still used as a great reference. If you are a Prime member, there are usually several books that you can borrow or download for free that will contain some useful information and recipes.
Favorite is “salt, fat, acid, heat by Samin Nosrat. Not bbq book, but once you read it you will have a much better perspective on how to cook.
Lots of truth to what Ronbrad62 said.
I preface this by saying that I attribute Steven Raichlen for increasing my interest in barbecue many years ago...what seems like a lifetime ago, and I’ll still watch his shows and enjoy it if I happen across it on PBS.
The books below tell a much better story than Raichlen’s or “Meathead’s”, in my opinion. I’ve bought quite a few books over the years due to Brethren recommendations and these are all good. There’s more than just recipes in these books.
Love the recommendations above. And “Smoke and Spice” may be a little dated and doesn’t have pretty pictures, but still a good resource.
Favorite is “salt, fat, acid, heat by Samin Nosrat. Not bbq book, but once you read it you will have a much better perspective on how to cook.
Plain and simple here. Once I read "Aaron Franklin's Meat Smoking Manifesto" I sent the other's to the Church sale.
"Peace, Love & BBQ" -- Mike Mills
I prefer techniques over recipes.
https://www.amazon.com/Peace-Love-B...=1594378369&sprefix=mike+mills,aps,220&sr=8-3
I learned a lot from reading Ray Lampe’s (Dr BBQ) Big Time BBQ cookbook. Smoke and Spice is also an old favorite. The brisket hash recipe is killer.