<...>
> Along those lines, avoid "Head First", a little too detractingly silly
> for me.
<...>

That's true... if you want a reference book, or if you prefer boring,"serious"
and "professional" style (or if you are looking for some cure for insomnia).
On the other hand, if you are looking for a book which would help to learn and
remember: DO consider "Head First". These are written by people who know
great deal about how the brain works and teaching/learning.
Kathy Sierra's blog at http://headrush.typepad.com/ is worth reading too..

As for Ruby/RubyonRails, I'd say "Agile Web Development with Ruby on Rails"
and "Programming Ruby"  both are 'must-have' and "Ruby for Rails" is very
welcome addition to these.


Regards,
Rimantas
--
http://rimantas.com/