After answering the same damn question for the thousandth time over on Reddit /r/hobbycnc, I got tired of it and wrote a book to help people out:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1738802108

I figure about 2/3rds of y'all here are well past this book, but maybe you too are tired of answering questions and could use a reference that's a little more introductory than the Pete Smid books or the Machinery's Handbook.

The paperback is the best deal. I find the Kindle version doesn't work as well (too many pictures) and the hardcover is just there to make the paperback look cheap.

It's print-on-demand, and there are versions (English only) that can be bought from your local Amazon if you aren't American; it save a lot on shipping costs. Just search for the title and you'll find it.

Share and enjoy!