Getting Started in Technical Analysis by Jack Schwager

This book is an excellent starting point for novice traders that covers every major topic in technical analysis. In addition to covering chart patterns and technical indicators, the book takes a look at how to choose entry and exit points, developing trading systems, and developing a plan for successful trading. These are all key elements to becoming a successful trader and there aren't many books that combine all of this advice into a single book.

Technical Analysis Explained by Martin Pring

This book is considered by many to be the “Bible” of technical analysis since it contains an exhaustive amount of information covering the core concepts. The book also covers ancillary topics like trading psychology and market mechanics that help traders understand "the why" rather than just "the how" of technical analysis. Despite the wide breadth of knowledge, the book is very approachable and easy to understand for novice traders.

Technical Analysis of the Financial Markets by John Murphy

This book is an approachable introduction to technical analysis that still provides a high level of detail and actionable insights. As a former technical analyst for CNBC with over 40 years of experience in the market, Mr. Murphy has become a leading voice for technical analysis and is highly skilled at conveying complex topics in an easy to understand manner. Novice traders may want to check out this book before diving into more complex topics.

How to Make Money in Stocks by William O’Neil

Japanese Candlestick Charting Techniques by Steve Nison

This book is the definitive volume on candlestick charting, which is one of the most commonly used technical analysis tools. Prior to Nison’s work, candlestick charting was relatively unknown in the West. He helped publicize the technique and train institutional traders and analysts at top investment banking firms. The book offers a thorough explanation of the subject, including explanations of virtually all candlestick patterns that are used by traders today.

Encyclopedia of Chart Patterns by Thomas Bulkowski

This book is truly an encyclopedia that contains an exhaustive list of chart patterns a statistical overview of how they have performed in predicting future price movements. Mr. Bulkowski is a well-known chartist and technical analyst and his statistical analysis set the book apart from others that simply show chart patterns and how to spot them. The updated version of the book includes a section on event trading and patterns that occur with news releases.