The samba is full of jerks.
Go here for real help: http://www.itinerant-air-cooled.com/index.php?sid=9cbb87150afb23cb20e45483b2b40dc1
I would like to date you, but that would probably not be good for you. Definitely get a book as others have recommended, and get a second opinion from another mechanic. While you’re waiting, wash and clean it as much as possible so you feel good about it. Replacing brakes on a VW is pretty easy (even I’ve done it) so I wonder about the $600 price tag.