As a product of this economic climate, there are a lot of people starting their first business right now.  I've had a lot of requests lately for book recommendations from friends and acquaintances who are in this position.  It's so exciting and liberating to decide to make things happen for yourself... It's also incredibly overwhelming and hard to know where to start. 

My recommendation for first time entrepreneurs is to get a realistic perspective on what it's like to be an entrepreneur.  It's one of the most exciting and stimulating journeys you can give yourself.  It's also one of the most challenging.  Owning a business or startup will test every aspect of your life.  To get a realistic perspective, talk to people you know who have been doing it for years.  Talk to people who have failed.  Talk to anyone you can in the industry, and definitely start talking to your potential client base as soon as you can. 

Be sure to read this article, 10 Tips for the First-Time Business Owner, paying extra attention to #7!  You may also want to pick up Fast Company and Entrepreneur magazines for inspiration.  If you're looking for books, here are some recommendations:

Art of the Start: The Time-Tested, Battle Hardened Guide for Anyone Starting Anything by Guy Kawasaki

The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber

The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference by Malcolm Gladwell

Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die by Chip Heath

Attracting Perfect Customers by Stacey Hall and Jan Brogniez

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
or read it here- thanks to Donna Amos (@DonnaAmos)

There are tons of business and marketing books out there.  If I have forgotten some important ones, please leave them in the comments.  Thanks!