Programming Embedded Systems: With C and GNU Development Tools, 2nd Edition, by Michael Barr and Anthony Massa

The one book every embedded software developer must read to learn to interface directly to hardware using C. The updated and expanded second edition has examples using the GNU C compiler and an ARM processor.

Designing Embedded Hardware, 2nd Edition, by John Catsoulis

The perfect complement to Programming Embedded Systems (above), this book is a beginner's guide to embedded hardware development. Learn how to design a simple PIC or AVR-based printed circuit board.

Practical Statecharts in C/C++: Quantum Programming for Embedded Systems, by Miro Samek

Everything you ever wanted to know about hierarchical state machines. A true gem of a book, complete with C and C++ implementations of a framework for executing state machines in embedded systems.

MicroC/OS-II: The Real Time Kernel, by Jean Labrosse

The book to read if you want to know what makes a real-time operating system tick. It even includes the complete source code for a compact yet highly-portable RTOS.

Embedded Systems Dictionary, by Jack Ganssle and Michael Barr

A handy desktop reference for beginner and expert alike. Over 2,800 embedded-specific terms defined.

Analog Interfacing to Embedded Microprocessors: Real World Design, by Stuart Ball

Loaded with great information about various types of sensors, A/D converters, and other interfaces to the analog world.

What Every Engineer Should Know About Career Management, by Mike Ficco

Practical advice about getting things done on the project and in your career as an engineer.