Learning Java

I'm trying to make some friends who are interested in learning Java. I know about programming, and have fooled around with different languages (not seriously enough.) I think having some friends to compete with in learning a language would help learn it at a quicker pace.

I've been reading Java for Dummies off and on now for a week or so. I'm not trying to become super competent at it. I just want to be able to read the code properly.

I eventually want to branch off to other languages of course. But even though Python is considered easy to learn for beginners, I just don't feel it would actually benefit me as much as a first language, unlike Java which is heavily used. I haven't even thought about Perl to be honest.

@xarioth well if u want to go particularly for games I suggest u start with basics of android application development and after some time work with some game engines like andengine and unity 3D are really good, open source and free for commercial purposes

Yeah I don't want to particularly want to do it just for games, that's why I'm learning Java in general :D I already bought a book on it since books seem to help me develop a bit faster. I'll be taking classes in college on it soon, but I just want a head-start.