This brings back memories! Back when I wanted to get into programming, I had no idea where to start. I found a book about C++ at the library and it was one of the only programming languages I had heard about before (little did I know!). I believe it was "Teach yourself C++ in 21 days" or something like that. It came with a copy of DJGPP on CD-ROM.
Looking back it's amazing how much easier it is to learn stuff nowadays. The internet is truly a blessing.