Right there with you Ed. Teaming with Microbes is pretty good read, lots of good info on how it all works together.
There is a good article posted in the "Organic" section by madodah that really describes the difference between compost "teas". LINK. Most of the experts agree that simply soaking compost/castings in water with out proper aeration is either ineffective or actually detrimental to plants. Additionally, if the pump used won't provide enough oxygen or damages the microbes, the tea can be worthless. About the book, Teaming With Microbes. The "Preview" section of Amazon contains most of the 'Tea' chapter, if you want to . . . well preview it I have been considering ordering that book as well!!
Hi Ed. I have found that on organic grows, nutrient uptake is quite a bit slower and almost crippled. To combat this problem, I have found that upping my concentration of a chelating agent turns things around rather quickly, and to the plants and my satisfaction.