Can I covert my cdr files to AI files?

The easiest way to do this would be to export out the .cdr file(s) as an EPS and import it into Illustrator by going to File -> Place and select from the drop down EPS.

I would suggest if you are doing a book then export out as EPS and place it in InDesign and create a book document File -> New -> Book

We do have a similar question that may help you: Is there any way to convert 'AI' and 'EPS' to corel draw format (.cdr)?.