Hi Tracy,

I am not familiar with that book, but it sounds like some very good information.

And...

To put your question in a different light, I'd ask you this:

What is your preferred learning style?

In other words, do you learn best when you get to SEE and HEAR the new information (like you do when you learn from Guitar Tricks videos), or, do you do well with READING the information? Or both?

Some of my lessons here on Guitar Tricks cover the exact practice skills you mentioned (teaching proper left hand position, managing tension in your fingers, and learning to change chords in a more relaxed manner).

Also, I have many tutorials that teach full songs as a way of reinforcing new skills, even at a beginner level. You mentioned you'd like to play full songs - maybe you're closer to that than you thought!

I am not at all discouraging you from the book - but just trying to offer additional resources for your interests.

Here are some links right here on Guitar Tricks you might find useful:

”SPIDER LEGS” WARM-UP EXERCISES
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=621

ACOUSTIC CORE CONCEPTS: HOW TO MAKE FASTER CHORD CHANGES
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=463

ACOUSTIC STRUMMING 1: GETTING STARTED
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=486

ACOUSTIC FINGERPICKING FOR BEGINNERS 1: GETTING STARTED
http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=596


Good luck, have fun, keep us posted!
Best wishes, Lisa