I have posted a similar question before. I am getting close to starting my PPL. I talked to the CFI recently and he recommended the Jepp kit. I understand that the Jepp kit really helps. But is it really necessary? Another option is to do the Kershner book. I figure if I did the Kershner along with Gleim's test prep, I should be ok (since I also have a copy of Rod Machado's book). I was thinking of buying the Jepp book, instead of the whole kit.