I would recommend using Sybex or Exam Cram books, in addition to the cisco books as a reference. The Cisco books are very complete, perhaps TOO complete for a person who simply wants to pass the test.
Testing software can be very helpful. Transender and Measure Up are two good companies. I prefer Measure Up because of the flexibility of the software and their excellent explanations. Note that some of the books will come with testing software in the back on a cd.
Cisco posts huge amounts of documentation online, and it makes an excellent reference/study aid.
http://www.cisco.com/univercd/home/home.htm
Last bit of advice: Don't bother cheating. You can find nearly any test online using 'brain dump' sites or Test King. But you probably won't even make it through the interview. I can't tell you how many 'paper tigers' I have interview that were certified, but obviously didn't know *****.