there are a lots of things for free on the internet and many states have helpful sites for small business owners first. I would probably go that route before buying a book from a shelf.
Melissa
i'm just looking for the basics of starting and running a business. i just want to learn more to see if it is something i might want to do in the future. i'm so new at this, i definitely need to practice more but i just wanted to read up on it.
( i was an art major in college and i am definitely more of a creative, right brain type so the whole business side of things doesn't come very easy to me. 
)
You may want to check the area colleges to see what they offer. My husband took a course at a local college on starting a business. It took him thru the business plan, financing, legal stuff, etc. He felt it was really beneficial. He is very good at his profession, but starting/running a business was new. So we had a good leg up when we went to the bank to apply for a business loan. The class also helped him I think with understanding ALL the taxes that we had to pay.
Go to the library and see what they may have for you, but also check out the college systems in your area. Good Luck!
Here is a good one that at least covers setting up a bakery which is at least close. However, if you are looking for a book that covers a cake making business in your home, this may not be so beneficial. I am not sure if there are any books written on the subject. Try your library...
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0910627339/?tag=cakecentral-20
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