I have read most of starting strength. I didn't like it. It's not focused on getting an aesthetic body, or on techniques to help you get there. It's focused on moving the most weight in the Olympic Barbell movements. This book aims at leaving, your arms, calves and abs underdeveloped as they aren't important in moving the weight. The book is broken up into chapters Squat, Press, Bench, Power Clean, Deadlift, assistance exercises, and programming.

More reasons SS, isn't what people want;

• It doesn't teach hypertrophy (muscle size building).
• it tells you to lift as fast as possible, only do that when going for a new personal record. otherwise focus on time under tension, more reps at a slower pace will help them grow physically.
• it tells you to hold your breath as you lift. It again is only good for powerlifting. As it leaves your muscles oxygen starved.
• it teaches the low bar Squat, which requires a high degree of flexibility to nail with good form. Again it is aimed at bigger numbers and less size.
• Gray Skull is a good alternative. I haven't read the book but the routine is far more hypertrophy focused.

EDIT:I have been flipping through SS, for the last 10mins. I think it is essential for people interested in lifting to read a book before they hit the gym. This book, is simply wrote (only complex words are muscle names) and in clear english. It provides a lot of critical information, I recommend it, however if you want to get big to look good for the ladies/self-esteem, I recommend you find another book to offer points on hypertrophy or hire a trainer like I did.