I am looking for books ( or a series of books) that offer detailed instructions on particular tools, including step by step instruction from the basic operation to advanced techniques', with a strong emphasis on safety. Something that might be used in an industrial arts course, but tailored to an absolute beginner. I'm hoping for something that has skill building exercises and some simple projects, not project books however. 

I've looked through the book reviews, and the Table saw book by Toplin looks promising, I have a hold placed on it at the local library, hope to pick it up today.  

Edited July 2, 2025Jul 2 by Wichman3
additional information

This is an older book (so you can find at a discount on secondary markets), but I think is a good intro.  It lists a number of operations and options to do three ways: by hand tools, by portable power tools, and by stationary power tools.  For example: using a hand saw, using a circular saw, and using a table saw.

 

Here is one for hand planes and at Thrift Books it is not expensive

 

 

Also there are several Bandsaw books well worth the investment. This is one of the best also at Thrift Books

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I don't think you can wrong with the Tage Frid series of books, I purchased them in my early years of serious woodworking, loved them, and still have them and still reference them to this day.

 

https://openlibrary.org/search?q=tage+frid

3 hours ago, John Morris said:

I don't think you can wrong with the Tage Frid series of books, I purchased them in my early years of serious woodworking, loved them, and still have them and still reference them to this day.

 

https://openlibrary.org/search?q=tage+frid

My first woodworking class was with Tage Frid.  I later got his books and second this suggestion.