How to learn Programming
Read a fantastic article on Life Hacker on how to teach yourself computer programming: http://lifehacker.com/5401954/programmer-101-teach-yourself-how-to-code
My only comment would be pick a language that is based on C-like syntax (rather than use Python or VB) because although the syntax may seem harder, the syntax is more transferrable to other languages and it would give you a head start.
In my personal experience, a book only served as a reference. I found books that taught me how to do something soon became too basic for my needs and often there are plenty of guides on the internet that is a good replacement. Instead you will find much of my library consists of reference books, hint, tips and advanced topics.