Noob questions...

Ok, here's my scenario... My Web Host has all Root Admin control over MySQL and PHP configs (but they are setup well no complaints there)...I simply have access to 1 DB (already created) that I can do what I want with (create/delete/update tables). I'm VERY comfortable in Windows, C/C++, Delphi and SQL. But I'm a noob to Unix/Linux, as well as both MySQL and PHP. I have two books and the online manuals and I'm reading them...unfortunately almost ALL of them assume you have Root Admin (as well as build) privileges. Can someone recommend a MySQL Front End, that a) is free and b) a noob can set up and finally c) allows me to work from a client on MySQL DB on my Web Host? Thanks Brett