If your totally new to Linux try Knoppix it runs off a cd you don't need to install it to a hardrrive,
this is the way to go if your a newbie and just want to try linux before committing to a full system install.
David Mcnabb wrote a 'how to' on installing it on the system it comes packed with alot of cool stuff........
it's debian based so you can use the apt-tool to get everything you need.