Thanks all...!
Yes... I now realize I am officially "old" and even $100 doesn't get much these days.
What i am likely to do is start with one of those "10 best flies" lists - guaranteed to catch arm length trout - and get what i need for those patterns and start there. Looks like there's a wealth of free Youtube videos for tying so i shouldn't need a book (you know, one of those old things made of paper that has pictures and text).
OK, i have some work cut out for myself. Time to get my butt in gear.