Is the Nikon D5100 good for a complete dSLR novice?

I know about ISO, aperture, shutter speed and basics like that. I'm in love with photography, but I only have a Panasonic TZ20 (which I hate) and am looking to upgrade.

Yep, the Nikon 5100 is a fantastic camera as a first dslr- though considering it has been discontinued you should maybe look at the new D3200 or D5200

Yes. ANY DSLR has a completely auto mode which makes them all equally easy to use for a beginner.

The D5100 has quite a lot of more advanced features which make it a better camera than the more basic D3100. If you compare them in a shop you will notice straight away the higher resolution LCD screen on the D5100 which makes it much better for reviewing images and for live-view.

What you won't see is the superb sensor (the same as the one in the brilliant D7000) and the many small improvements which will make it a more useful tool in the long term.

It's a good price right now because the D5200 which supersedes it has only recently been launched, so if you can afford it then go for it. You will get some great photos from it.

One thing you will love compared to a compact is the handling and speed of response. Power up time and shutter lag are very low!