My 2 cents. He needs to pick a language and learn it. It honestly doesn't matter which one, everyone has their passion language or preferences. But in reality, learn Python, JavaScript, Java, C#, C/C++ almost anything. I'd personally, probably push him towards Python, C# or maybe even Ruby. Partially it would depend what he thinks he wants to do though too, e.g. create websites, or graphics programming, simulation programming or games etc. I'd also give him any good SQL beginners book, it never hurts to understand how to query and work with SQL data.
As for getting a job soon. He needs to get some time to become reasonably proficient in at least one language, which means likely 6+ months of practice and some serious dedication. I can't imagine someone not having at least that before trying to apply for JR dev jobs. Everything depends on his ability and aptitude for development work though. But when he does try to apply, he needs to be realistic and apply for JR positions likely on larger teams so he can be mentored. Startups and small teams just don't usually have the capacity to train and keep up their work.
There are no magical books in my opinion, some are better then others, but frankly pick any book up and work through it. The reality is when you are learning it is best to have 2-3-4 different books that approach things differently so you can learn. It helps to do things wrong and figure them out. Have him join StackOverflow for questions and research, find forums that focus on the language he chooses and get active there.
Don't try to learn to many different languages at once, stick to 1 + SQL. I suggest SQL because it has the most widespread appeal on enterprise and large teams that he'd likely have some possibility to get on. Then expand from there, but remind him to be realistic just because you work with a language for 6-8 months that does not mean you are an expert. It takes years to truly master a language and even then "experts" still learn or find new ways to use the language and push it that no one saw before.