I have no clue how I didn't see this thread earlier... I guess I should browse the forums more. So your brother wants to learn how to program? Sounds cool. Unfortunately, I don't really have any valid starting language recommendations, due to the fact that I started with simple MapleStory private server Java manipulation (not much, really), and then jumped straight into C++ and gradually advanced until I hit the ground running with graphical programming. I have heard that Python/Perl/etc. are good, but what I think he'd need in order to really get him started is something cool. Say, if you made a game in C++ and integrated lua scripting, then started him off with that (Falco, you better finish your game quickly!
), it would probably be a great motivator. Find something that really interests him (say, pyGame and the like, or maybe even GameMaker/RPGMaker) and help him get started. Then try to make sure he keeps advancing, and his motivation stays. Once he gets into the realm of C/++ (game) programming, you can just about safely say there's no turning back for him
Good luck to him, and sorry for the rather long-winded post.