Tobias Buckell has a great site. He did a survey of the advance received for a first novel, that's fantastic work. I would have guessed the median was a lot closer to zero. Maybe I need to get my novel out the door !
Geek's Guide to Self Publishing
I just finished listening to one of the best podcasts I've ever heard. Episode 83 of Wired's Geek's Guide to the Galaxy. This episode dealt in depth on topics of self-publishing, with detailed information about the Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing. Guests Hugh Howie and Tobias Buckell gave outstanding information and advice on self-publishing, including how to choose between indie and traditional publishing.
I give this my highest recommendation. The only problem here is that most people will think this is only for science fiction writers. But everything I heard makes this a fantastic reference for anyone considering self-publishing.