Starting with Php and Java

I would like to start programming or hacking and a friend of my suggested that I start with php. I know that it has something to do with servers, the book I have is called "PHP for the web", by larry ullman and

"Java for dummies: all in one" I bought this a long time ago. I do have some experience in programming because I took a class in high school but i can't remember what language I was programming in.