1. SQL is *NOT* that tough - if I can learn it and use 
      it, then anyone can.  And while some SQL(joins and
      there are more advanced topics that involve a 
      learning curve) can be more challenging to learn for
      newbies, the basics (SELECT, INSERT, DELETE) are very
      straightforward.
   2. Using Perl/DBI/DBD::?? to interact with a database 
      sort of assumes that you already have a working
      database, which kind of assumes that you already
      know how to interact with the database on its
      own(without Perl/DBI/DBD::??).  To do that, you
      should already have some familiarity with SQL, or
      you should learn SQL, at least enought to interact
      with your database through its "built in" client 
      interface.