i think the best way to learn linux is to install it on your computer and start using it... i installed Redhat 7.0 last year and i am becomming accustomed to it now.
here is the link for
Redhat i have several books because i have not found 1 that contains everything i need. the best one i have found so far is "Redhat Linux 7 Unleashed" from Sams. of course, if you install Mandrake or Solaris, you will not want this book. i also have "Running Linux" from O'Reilly... it is a good book, but not as detailed as "Unleashed."