For learning
Java syntax, Head First Java is a must. This book is updated with version 1.5 info, but for the most part, it is a learning guide on how to code Java, which is what you need to know for the SCJP exam:
Head First Java by Kathy Sierra, Bert Bates The other book you'll want is the actual certification guide for SCJP. I believe version 1.4 is actually called Java 2.
Sun Certified Programmer & Developer for Java 2 Study Guide By the way, have you thought about
SCJA? That's the new entry level Java certification from Sun. It's a tad easier than SCJP. My signature has some good book links on SCJA.
Happy Java!
-Cameron McKenzie
[ January 11, 2007: Message edited by: Bear Bibeault ]