I have this book and like it, but I doubt it's particularly useful for the typical nerd wiring up a credible looking web application.

Can you recommend a different book that would be more useful to someone trying to edit Twitter Bootstrap from a beginner's perspective?

You don't need a book. You just need to build a hello-world application with the Bootstrap CSS/JS code, using one of the layouts they provide as a starting point. Then just use the page of Bootstrap demos as an a la carte menu as you find yourself needing UI features.

The Grid Systems book that was recommended earlier is a better bet if you're a typographer or graphic designer, and particularly if you're thinking about designing novel grid systems. But you're not doing that. The Bootstrap grid is trivial and does not require any background in design to use.

That doesn't mean one can't educate oneself on what it is though no?

I mean I am a designer but still taught myself programming and is generally interested in technology.

Understanding design better will make you a better programmer IMHO.

All I can offer here is my opinion. I have the book. I like it, because I geek out a little on typography and graphic design (I am horrible at both). I wouldn't put the book on my "buy immediately" list of practical design books for developers.

_Elements of Typography_ (which also has some coverage of grids, along with meter systems), yes. _Elements_ is a buy-immediately book (and a joy to read).

Khoi Vinh's Ordering Disorder is a good book on grids, and its focused entirely on web design.

Although, nothing beats Brockmann's Grid Systems book mentioned earlier.

http://www.amazon.com/Ordering-Disorder-Principles-Design-Vo...