Indeed, Core Servlets and JavaServer pages is a great book, but it's pretty intimidating for a beginner.
Core Servlets and JavaServer Pages, Vol. 1: Core Technologies by Marty Hall, Larry Brown It's a great reference, and has some great code, but for learning Java and J2EE, it can be a little intimidating.
For learning Java, just Java, I totally and highly recommend Head First Java. Just read the amazon reviews and you'll want to by it:
Head First Java by Kathy Sierra, Bert Bates For learning J2EE, you need to start with Servlets and JSPs:
Head First Servlets and JSP: Passing the Sun Certified Web Component Developer Exam (SCWCD) Combine that with the Head First EJB book, and you'll be all over Java and J2EE.
Head First EJB (Brain-Friendly Study Guides; Enterprise JavaBeans) For learning J2EE,
you should also check out some of my multimedia tutorials that I link to in my signature.
Cheers!
-Cameron McKenzie
[ January 11, 2007: Message edited by: Bear Bibeault ]