Not saying it is the best language to get started with but it definately gave me a good understanding of the fundamental concepts of programming, loops, arrays, statements, functions. I got started by taking Stanford's free online Java classes, and then took an actual class at a City College at night. I blogged about my experience getting started with Java here:
https://jasoncoltrin.com/2013/... , but I suggest you do the same and write about the things you learn as it will help you retain the info.