I have a degree in Computer Science. I didn't find it easy when I started (nothing mind-expanding is), but I do now. I taught myself C using C Programming: A Modern Approach over the course of the summer holidays but I was already a decent programmer by then. I still recommend it as an introductory text on the subject. Lots of people recommend The C Programming Language by Kernighan & Ritchie and, although it's an excellent book, it may be a bit terse for a complete beginner. The most important piece of advice is the same for anybody trying to do anything: persevere.