Starting Linux

I may take Linux programming next semester and i would like to get a head start on it. What is the best/easiest Linux type for that, and what literature should i look for?
thx in advance

>>2
how to use a proper editor (ie: vim or emacs)
HA HA HA, 1970 called, it wants you back.

>>1
Don't listen to him, Anonymous, vim and emacs are ancient shitty editors with nonstandard keys, an ugly learning curve, and the ability to behave exactly the way you don't want to, and are made of ass and poo. The best editor I saw on Linux was Kate; unfortunately it's for X, but I'd rather shoot my balls than use vim or emacs.