Paper piecing can be intimidating and it will be slow going at first. I love it though because it helps me keep my points and keeps them lined up correctly. I can't do a straight log cabin with out PPing it! I agree you should try a simple block first, there are lots of free ones online
http://piecebynumber.com/pastbom/archbom.htm
http://www.caroldoak.com/free-quilt-patterns.php