Which of the four madhhabs is closest to the truth, and what is the book with which one can begin studying the chosen madhhab?

A student of knowledge should not be confused by the four schools of thought (madhahib), for all of them are truth, guidance, and sunnah. It is preferable for him to follow the madhhab that is practiced in his country. He should not be fanatically attached to a specific madhhab or think that others are invalid. His primary aim should be to follow the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, and the madhahib are paths that aid in this. Their preference is determined by the strength of their evidence. A student of knowledge begins with concise books designated for beginners, then gradually progresses in his studies.