Hello,
First grasp the basics of Core Java Completely, may be Head First Java can help you understanding the core quiet nicely.
If you really want to try your hands on challenging assignments then "Java How to Program by Deitel and Deitel" is pretty
much focussed on assignments. You will encounter challenging problems into it.
Rest, with just core Java and Swing, you can make some desktop application, may be a Student Management System or
something else. But i will suggest if you get the basics really good, then have a look into
JSP and
Servlets, with a know how
of some good frameworks like
Struts, Spring and Hibernate.(I am talking a lot high level). Then you can really pickup something
like a Message Board, a blogger anything like that. I really think, it will open your concepts.
Right now, go with HFJ and for assignments "Java How to Program by Deitel and Deitel".
Personally, i think it is a
SCJP forum, i guess this
thread can be moved to an appropriate forum by the Moderators. Rohan, i believe
for posting question
you should Select Appropriate Forum
HTH,