I used Kermode during my PPL training as it provided a more thorough grounding than found in the Trevor Thom's - although they too are useful.
I have in my hand a copy of Stick and Rudder, just bought for some light holiday reading in a few weeks time.
And as a personal recommendation I'd like to suggest The Killing Zone : How and Why Pilots Die. A not very jolly title for a very informative book.
Last Christmas I received a copy of "Ask the Pilot - Everything you need to know about air travel". A bit tongue in cheek as a gift, but a lightweight read about the industry.