ng-book 1 is a little of both reference and guide. angular 1 is tricky in that there are several "tripods" of knowledge (ie three concepts that all depend on each other before you can understand the others).

That said, I'm sure we can do a better job at explaining many of the concepts. Ng-book 1 has an update in progress as we speak and I'd love to improve the section(s) you're referring to with more of a guide?

Would you be willing to let me know which part(s) you'd like to be clearer (either here or via email)? My email is in my profile and I'd love to chat.