Questions from a Neophyte

Hello!

I'm totally new to the Torque 3D tools and engine, and have a few questions for the experts.

I was brought here after I bought a second-hand book by Kenneth Finney "3D Game Programming All in One", which was driven by my son expressing an interest in learning how video games are made and how to do it.

I'm a hobbyist programmer at best, but I do at least know the difference between a selection sort and a bubble sort, and what a doubly-linked list is. I realize that isn't saying much. All of my experience (which, again, isn't much!) is based in Linux, working on text-based MUD code. I can teach him the logic and structures of basic programming, and the book I have seems to be a pretty good introduction to all the facets of making a game with Torque, but I also realize it's somewhat dated, and necessarily just a primer to each discipline.

Would any of you be willing to post links or suggestions to resources that he and I can use to really solidify our understanding? We don't want to do this half-assed, and want to have something he can be proud of when we're done.

Here's what I've got so far:
The aforementioned book
The Torque 3D docs online
A few links to various tools and docs (Gimp, MilkShape 3D, Blender, etc.)
My good looks (debatable)

I'm interested in any suggested tools (for 3D modeling, sound editing, texturing, code editing, etc) that you found to be easiest to work with; your favorite sources for code snippets, reference, tutorials, and especially sources for textures, workable models, etc.; or anything else you'd feel might help me bond with my boy before he knocks up some hot cheerleader and ruins his life.

Thanks in advance for your responses!
Steve