Recommendations for a textbook on "Complex Variables with Applications" emphasize the need for resources with ample practice problems and less theoretical content. Notable suggestions include "Complex Variables" by Flanigan, which is user-friendly, and "Complex Variables with Applications" by Saff and Snyder, praised for its inclusion of answers to odd-numbered problems. Additionally, "Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences" by Boas is recommended for its approachable content. Each book is noted for its practicality and relevance to the course, catering to students seeking hands-on problem-solving experience.