The MySQL Explained article

Getting Started with...

MySQL:
Once you've worked your way through the PHP Explained article, the next stage is learning MySQL and using database features in your site. Read MySQL Explained, a beginner's guide to MySQL. But only once you've read the PHP Explained document, okay?.

Essential reference...

You'll need some good reference books beside you... I'm not kidding!

Here's a short list of some of the best PHP and MySQL reference books around.

...Or just get the book below; it will serve you well:

PHP and MySQL Web Development