Just to clear this out, we're listing three different levels of choices:

Choosing a language - but it seems that's done. :)
Choosing a graphics API (depends on language) - seems that's done too (DirectX).
Choosing a GUI API (depends on graphics API and language) - undecided.

You are all so helpful. Thank you very much!

So, I download the graphics API, which helps me create graphics? and then I download the GUI API, which does what?

Also, would my Game Coding Complete book be a good way to learn to create games using the graphics API - but would it not include advice on how to use the GUI API? What would be the best way to learn these things?

=S

Again thank you so far