What a wonderful gift to give this young man. A great foundation is so very important to create a terrific relation.
When I teach a puppy class, I have to go over the many books in our clubs library or my own. One that seems to be good read would be New Art of Dog Training - Balancing love and discipline

I feel one of the best behaviorists around is Dr. Patricia McConnell and she is out of Wisconsin. She has a wonderful radio show on public radio and also you can get DVDs from her seminars. The Other End of the Leash is a grat book.

The Complete Handbook of Dog Training by Thomas A Knott is a very basic read if obedience showing might be in the future.

Personally I feel one of the best things is classes. Best for socialization and learning. Hopefully there is one in his area. Although there are classes at Pet Smart type places but they may not be as good as a local club. I would suggest he go for a CGC with his dog so that he have a goal.

Great luck and thanks for being so good to him! Merry Christmas.