Here is a list of some of the books I have read that have been most helpful in understanding and dealing with Bipolar Disorder:

"Moodswing" by Dr. Ronald R. Fieve
* he also has his own website

"Bipolar Disorder" by Dr. Francis Mark Mondimore
A guide for patients and family
A Johns Hopkins Press Health book

"Bipolar Child" by Dr. Demetri Papolos

"Overcoming Depression" by Dr. Demetri Papolos & Janice Papolos

"An Unquiet Mind" by Kay Redfield Jamison

"Touched With Fire" by Kay Redfiled Jamison
Manic Depressive Illness and the Artisitc Temperament

"Night Falls Fast" by Kay Redfield Jamison
Understanding Suicide

"Surviving Manic Depression" by E. Fuller Torrey, M.D
and Michael B. Knable, D.O

"Manic Depressive Illness" by Dr.'s Goodwin & Jamison
Note: this is more of a very technical book and very pricey, but was worth the money and reading.

"Hatherleigh Guide to Psycopharacology"
Note: I found this at Borders Books, but I am sure Amazon or any good book store may have it.

The last 2 books I'll mention are more about the lives, narratives, of the author's life experiences.

"The Noonday Demon" by Andrrew Solomon

"Electroboy" by Andy Behrman

There are so many more, too many to list but check in the Psychology sections at Borders, Waldens, Barnes & Nobles, and also try Amazon.com.
Hope you'll find these good for starters

"darkeyes"

In giving advice seek to help, not please your friend
SOLON