First I want to congratulate you on your decision to become a Muslim - one who submits his/her will to that of Allah. You have been blessed with guidance from Allah.
I agree with all comments from above. In addition to the explantation provided by Brother Woodrow, for most non-Muslims in the West, there is a strong association in their minds between Islam and terrorism. We Muslims, of course, do not approve of the violence against innocent people that some Muslims commit. It is difficult to convince others that these actions are not sanctioned by Islam.
I would have to say that as long as you live at home, that you should obey your parents about the Islamic books. Hopefully, your mother does not forbid the Quran and books to show you how to worship Allah such as "Islam in Focus" and "Islam Beliefs and Teachings". Perhaps you can show her the books you are reading where she can better understand.
Quran 29:8 We have enjoined man to show kindness to his parents; but if they (your parents) force you to commit shirk with Me, of which you have no knowledge, do not obey them. To Me is your return and I will inform you of what you have done.
With that said, we must love and fear Allah more than any person or thing. I, too, am a revert and my parents objected to my becoming a Muslim. I had always treated my parents with respect, but they have both since died in a state of being upset with me for my decision. If we believe in a Judgement Day, then we should do what we believe will be best for us on that Day when we stand alone.
Quran 31:15 If they argue with you to commit shirk, of which you have no knowledge, then do not obey them; however you should still treat them kindly in this world, but follow the way of that individual who has turned to Me. After all, to Me is your return; then I will inform you about the reality of all that you have done."
Quran 9:23-24 O believers! Do not take your fathers and your brothers as your friends if they prefer Kufr (unbelief) over Iman (belief); for those who turn away from this commandment shall be considered wrongdoers. O Prophet, tell them: If your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your spouses, your relatives, the wealth that you have acquired, the business in which you fear a loss, and the homes which you like are dearer to you than Allah, His Rasool, and making Jihad (struggle) in His Way, then wait until Allah brings about His decision. Allah does not guide the transgressors.