Here is an outstanding series of articles published by the AMA that will be really useful to new pilots. It is called, "From the Ground Up" by Bob Aberle. I highly recommend it.
http://www.modelaircraft.org/mag/FTGU/Part1/index.html


The AMA, the Academy of Model Aeronautics, is an outstanding resource to the new and experienced flyer. I encourage you to become a member.
http://www.modelaircraft.org/aboutus.asp