I want to use VB.Net (2003, I think) to connect to an Access 2000 database
that includes several tables, queries, etc.  Some of it can be handled
through DataGrids, but a great portion has to be handled programmatically,
i.e., the user clicks a button to begin a behind-the-scenes process that
involves manipulating two tables to update a  third, then generating three
reports from this transaction.

I need recomendations on a text book, reference manual, etc. to do this
manual programming SQL directly from the VB code.  The programming is
activated by a button on the form, but after that, is form independent. 

I don't have SQL Server, so please don't bother referring me to those
manuals - of which I have found three! 

Any suggestions?

Datagrid with search capabilities, how to implement it?
System.Data and System.Data.SqlClient - Which one should I use ?
Inserting Access Table from VB.Net
getting Identity value back
Invalid Parameter when retreiving image