First time having manual brakes, are mine bad?

Hey, I would suggest not giving up on this. Go through it until you get it. This is a right of passage that you can conquer and you will be a brake friggin expert by the time you are done. The thing is....its something simple. Anyone can replace a part, diagnosis is the hardest part of this game and you are in the hunt!! its exciting!! all these dudes want to help and will.....One little itty bitty word of advice......seems stupid given the subject matter....but throw some pictures in with the struggle. you would be amazed at what these guys will pick up and see!

pull rear drum...take picture
same for the front
pedals to see height of pedal.

Stay in the fight!