[Foghatlive]

Obviously, it's a good idea to read everything you can on the subject. A couple of my favorite books:

The Battle for Investment Survival - Gerald Loeb

How I Made $2,000,000 in the Stock Market - N. Darvas

Now, being a beginner, you're going to go through a period of experimentation, which usually means losses. So, you don't want to pour too much money into it. By the same token, the play money approach doesn't work because it doesn't simulate the emotional factor.

IMO, for a guy with an average income, $2,000 is a good starting amount. You can always put more in your account as you get more experience.

As far as an online broker, I use ETrade and haven't had any major problems.

Hope this helps.