:attn:
Just got Mike's book "The Game Animator's Guide To Maya".
It's a great book and I heartily recommend it - like all of Mike's work. Excellent value.

If you haven't visited already, have a look at https://www.mtmckinley.net The tutorial section has 20 odd tutes. If you like these, you'll love this book.

Oh, one last thing - Whenever I want programming books, I go to the closest university and look in their second-hand book shop. I don't remember the last time I saw a (second-hand) 3d book here in Melbourne, but I'd be surprised if we even had animation and modelling courses at the university I visited. It's worth a try if the finances are limited and the effort of checking out said venue is not too great.

Regards, and good luck.