Probability Theory by E T Jaynes

For electronics, "The Art of Electronics" by Paul Horowitz and Winfield Hill is one of the best. Ramps up quickly, but starts from the basics. It's suitable for beginners, but also provides you the opportunity to explore advanced topics.

If you prefer a hands-on approach, consider supplementing your learning with its companion book, "Learning the Art of Electronics: A Hands-On Lab Course" by Thomas C. Hayes and Paul Horowitz.

For bio, Campbell Biology I guess (it does start from the basics, but it quickly gets really advanced)

Gödel, Escher, Bach - does that count? Very readable and certainly informative, building from basics...

Elements of Abstract Algebra by Allan Clarke. Very unique, problem-based introduction to group theory.

• Earth: Portrait of a Planet by Stephen Marshak (geology and geography)

• Chemical Principles by Atkins et al.

Is this a book to merely read, or would you like one with lots of exercises? Also, what background? It's hard to find a textbook that requires seriously no background at all.

Do you have any subject in mind?