Hi there,
Trading has always intrigued me as a profession. And recently, a friend told me that he is making a living trading futures. After doing some reading, I've decided it is something that I'd really like to do and pursue on my own. I've had various wins and losses trading stocks and never had a strategy or patience. I now realize the importance of having patience, a strategy, and a cool head. But now I'd like to get as informed as possible about trading futures. And what better way than to ask on a great and friendly forum such as this? ;)

If you've read this far, I appreciate it. I've been doing some brief reading on trading commodities and I have a few questions.

1) What is the best place for me to practice trading for free? I don't see any reason to start trading with money until I learn to trade profitably with fun-money.

2) Is there a way to begin trading properly (on a super small scale albeit) with a starting capital of only 10k?

3) Is there a must have book or site for beginners?

I've been reading "Trading by the book" by Joe Ross. To be honest, this book is what has piqued my interest in trading. He maintains that the business is not only luck and one can - with great discipline - become a profitable trader.

I'm going to continue reading this book and probably get his others. But any advice you guys can offer would be greatly appreciated. I'm very motivated so I WILL give trading a try. Fortunately for me (thank God), this is a side project, and my main income is protected from this venture.

Many thanks guys/girls,
Marco.