Good reading for planning for an Appalachian Trail journey?

Love to read...all kinds of stuff.  But lately I am reading a lot of non-fiction.  So I am sure I will read quite a few books and articles about the Appalachian Trail, different sections of the Appalachian Trail and historical books as well.  I will also look to read up on gear.  I want to pack smart and light.

I recently picked up SAS Survival Handbook by John Wiseman.  Although I don't predict that I will be in a "survival" situation, there is plenty of great info in the book to learn that will be applicable for the journey.  

A couple A.T. Specific books I am considering are:

How to Hike the A.T. :  The Nitty-Gritty Details of a Long Distance Trek by Michelle Ray

and

Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers Companion -2010 by Robert Sylvester

If I get one or both of these books I will review them here.

Added to some of the gear yesterday.  Bought a stainless steel drinking cup that can be used on a fire/heat to boil water or as a drinking cup.  Should last me a lifetime.