I'm Biblically illiterate... How do I learn about the Bible?

Although I have always lived in a religious area, and was raised Christian, I was never fully taught the Bible. Growing up, I was taught the basics that everyone knows, but have never even read the entire Bible from cover to cover. As an adult, I have read a bit of the Old Testament, and some of the New Testament. However, I still don't know much. One problem I have is retaining what I have read. Also, most Bibles are difficult to read. I recall being embarrassed anytime I used to go to church eventually having to admit that I had no idea what everyone was talking about. Any advice?