OTB,
Get yourself a copy of Clive Hughes' - Guide to becoming a Professional Pilot. Not sure if this is the book Clowns is referring to but I have to say it was one of the best £25 I spent before starting my flight training. It gives an excellent guide to the different licences required and an idea of costing for various courses.
It is usually available from the popular pilot stores so go buy it.
As you say it is just the tip of the iceberg though!
MD2K