SQL Server makes up one of the fundamental building blocks of database management. Surely whatever database server your company chooses is what you should learn. It just so happens my organization chose MS SQL 2000.



To make a long story relatively short, I was very new to SQL and knew very little about it. So as not to enter into the "panic-mode" I went to Amazon with hopes I could find a book on SQL 2000 with great recommendations. I think I found it in "The SQL Server 2000 Book.



At first glance, the SQL language seemed very intimidating and complex to me, but it's really not all that bad. Anthony Sequeira's book had a lot to do with making it less intimidating to me. Hey if it could help a thick-head like me, I'm sure it could help you too.



I would also recommend "MCSA/MCSE/MCDBA Self-Paced Training Kit: Microsoft SQL Server 2000 System Administration, 70-228, Second Edition" put out by Microsoft Press.



Both books have been a tremendous help.