I need a good reference book for SE, anyone got any suggestions?

the problem is that I’m self taught and while I can do some stuff really well some other simpler stuff I have no idea about.

Like alot of software packages you’ll probably find it all in-built or online. In other words another way for resellers to get a few more quid to sign you up for online tutoring.
Haven’t see a manual since SE1

can’t really do online stuff and as a contractor I move round jobs a lot hence wanting a book.

I can’t really see how you can learn much from just a book. You need a working copy of the software to practice and try the stuff in the book and if you have a working copy you can just use the on-line tutorials.

internet is blocked at work so can’t use online help.

a book lets me read up outside work hours, highlight bits I need to practice and then try them out at lunch.