Python is fantastic but Learning Python might be a bit steep for someone who's not familiar with programming at all.

Strangely, I think this youtube lecture series from Stanford is fantastic. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KkMDCCdjyW8

It's java but the lecturer eases you into the most important concepts with an understanding of how to engineer readable, reusable code. So watch it free. Then buy Learning Python. If there is an equivalent python learning video on youtube, I haven't found it.