Raising Capital for the Serious Entrepreneur. OK. This book has a bit of a naff title, but it is an excellent read. In fact, I’d go so far as to say it’s a must read for entrepreneurs.

Dermot Berkery has been a partner at Delta Partners since 1999 and gives a brilliant insight into how the system works and what it takes to raise money. The book covers everything from writing the plan (which he covers in a less dull way than most), valuing the company, how VCs work, and understanding the clauses that’ll cause contention during negotiations.

It’s written at a good pace with good examples to make things clear. If you even so much as plan on talking to an investor for your start-up, go and buy it now.