I think that "How to rebuild your Small-Block Chevy" by David Vizard is a good book to get some basic engine know how from. It may be old but it is a good one. I had to look around for mine to remember the name. I haven't seen it for so long I may just read it again!

You can still buy them from Summit.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/HPB-HP1029/