Ok

Well if your interested in mastering Maya book I got it from Amazon priced 31.99 GBP I think they had a few used for less money.

I like the book, find it easy to follow.

Also Have you tried the tutorials in the help files?
It has a good "getting started guide" you might find that useful.
As a bonus you get that free with the PLE version.

well I might not know much about 3D animation or modelling, but I have found all the good stuff to get started with.

just hope this helps a little

Cheers

Chris