Arch Linux
Arch linux “A simple lightweight linux distribution” simply provides you a command processor, no useless applications, not even a desktop environment. Installing a desktop environment is your choice. Extremely customizable. For a beginner I recommend using a virtual machine software, otherwise when you get stuck you will have to use another PC to find answers. I myself is a newbie to linux. But starting with Arch linux was entertaining.
Snapshots
Fig 1. Boot Arch linux from a disc
Fig 2. Installation screen of a recent Arch linux distribution
Fig 3. Where you end up after installing Arch linux
Fig 4. When KDE is installed.
Arch linux is provided with a package manager “pacman” which can be easily used for installing applications you wish. Read about it and everything about Arch linux here.
Beginners Guide
Official Installation Guide
archlinux.org
white wolf's lair 
Try gentoo. even better customization + optimization + you learn a hell of a lot about what goes into a linux system as well.
You mean by compiling everything right?. I’ll try. Thanks.