Reddit reviews The Art of Clarinet Playing

Reed strength is actually more dependent on the mouthpiece than on you. If you have a close mouthpiece(orchestral), you need a higher reed strength. If you have an open mouthpiece(jazz) you need a low reed strength.

It's harder to play the really high notes with a low reed strength.

Also, if you're going for an orchestral tone, try Gonzalez reeds. And bump up the strength to a three at least - you can get singlets if you go to good(not chain) music store.

Arbans is recommended for clarinet students as well, but it doesn't cover the highest and lowest registers - you should grab Baermann's III as well.

Art of Clarinet Playing talks a lot about the mechanics and embrochure without treating you like a five year old who can't tell a treble clef from a curlicue.