I've come to this post (and this group) late but thought I would reply anyway in case it's still helpful. I converted to Islam 7 years ago this Ramadan Alhamdulillah.

There were three main sources of information I used when I was reaearching Islam:

1. 'Teach Yourself Islam' by Ruqaiyyah Waris Maqsood

2. 'Welcome to Islam: A Convert's Tale' by Lucy Bushill-Matthews

3. The Holy Qur'an

This may seem like an odd order to put them in - surely The Qur'an should be first. But when I was looking for as much information as possible, I really wanted facts and explanations in a structured way so that I could get a firm grasp on, not only the beliefs of Muslims, but also the way Islam directed them in everyday life. So I learnt about everything in the first book, from the five pillars to the laws on interest, role of the mother and caring for relatives when they pass away. It was hugely informative and just what I was looking for. After that, I read Lucy's book about her conversion in her early 20s. Her story was remarkably similar to my own and I really related to her words. It was a great way to hear first hand how Islam had affected her life and gave me a lot of comfort to know I wasn't alone when it came to dealing with family etc.

Then after all this reading, and when I was almost ready in my heart to become Muslim, I began to read The Qur'an. I do believe this was the right way around, at least for me. By the time I was ready to read Allah's SWT own words, I was able to understand more what they meant, as well as to give The Book the respect it is due in terms of being clean before I touched it and covering myself etc.

I actually became Muslim long before I finished reading The Qur'an and I continued to read it all in the first few months after.

All I can say is try to learn as much as possible to inform your decision. It has to feel right in your heart.

I hope it helps in some way :)

New to Islam... advice please