I have been trying to learn C++ for two years on and off and have spent over $300 on books on the subject. None of them are as comprehensive as The Complete C++ Training Course by Deitel and Deitel. Starting with the first chapter, you learn by doing. There are plenty of exercises and you start writing programs in the first chapter. I would recommend this book to both the beginner in C++ or to the seasoned programmer. It is a great course.