[Cerek]

Good advice so far. Use ranged weapons as much as possible. Tuigen bow is one of the best options early in the game, especially since you can visit a merchant in Waukeen's Promenade that carries LOTS of arrows that are easy to steal.

One other item that can be invaluable early in the game can be found in the sewers under the Temple District. After loading up on arrows, go down into the sewers and head for the center section (avoid the party to the right unless you feel ready for them). Kill the rakshasa and take the Cloak of Sewers from him. That's an item I've never really used much in my previous games, but my solo bard has discovered just how valuable it can be to put this cloak on AFTER a really hard battle. Shapechange into a troll and you will regenerate ALL of your lost hp in a very short order.