RE: Is the Pt-19 a good starter plane?
jw,
"Building and Flying Control Line Model Aircraft" by Dick Sarpolus is a good one. Dick explains much of the basic information, different types of control line planes, building and finishing tips, etc.
It is available through Carstens Publications (Flying Models Magazine). It may also be available at your local hobby shop.
Good luck with your PT-19 and welcome to control line model airplanes.
George