Grant Fritchey (10/4/2013)
Jeff Atherton (10/4/2013)
SQLBill (9/30/2013)
Guru's Guide to Transact-SQL by Ken Henderson is my most-read book on SQL Server.-SQLBill
Haven't heard of this one before and all I can find is a version written in 2000. Do you know if this book has been updated or do you think the core of it is still useful for learning?
It has not been updated. Unfortunately Ken Henderson died at a very young age. Which is a shame because his books were absolutely, bar none, the best.
+100. I haven't read the book but heard only good words about it. Even heard like a holy grail for MS database guys. Grant, I didn't knew about his death (shocking).
Professional SQL Server 2008 Internals and Troubleshooting (By various)
SQL Server Execution Plans (By Grant)
SQL Server MVP Deep Dives (By various)
Knight's 24-Hour Trainer: Microsoft® SQL Server® 2008 Integration Services (By Brian & others)
Though these books are very very interesting, I'm a slow reader so still going through these books.