DIVE IN!
Experience is better than any book!
Start by trying to program some simple games, stuff you've seen a million times before. eg: Snake, Space Invaders, Pac Man. You already know how they work, but you'll be amazed at the challenges you'll face and the things you'll learn from coding these simple games.
Use 2d graphics at first, otherwise you'll get bogged down learning how to model instead of learning how to code. The modelling is the easy bit. Game logic, timing and control are the stuff you need to work out first. Believe me, I spent ages building models before I realised I didn't know how to manipulate them the way I wanted. That's the point where you will get sick and give up. Once you have learned how to control the action, the 3d bit is 200% more fun.
Try to see a project through to the end. It's very easy to give up on a project because you have "A Better Idea". DON'T. Putting the finishing touches onto a game can be the most difficult part. And may even change the way you approach your next project.
Don't Give Up!
DB is fun because it is very easy to get results quickly. Don't be put off when things get heavy, and you will get results.
Good luck and Hammer away!
