Engine planning 101

I'm reading my book (Larry Sheppard how to hot rod a small block mopar) and imo this is the worst book ever written. It is so jumbled with little factoids but no explanation or definition.
I bought that book online, if I'd have been able to thumb through it at a book store I would have tossed it back on the shelf. Borderline worthless IMO, great for dipping your toes in the water kind of involvement if someone wants a thrown together souped up mopar, I'd venture to say just about any other book out there would be better! I like Chryslers Mopar Performance engine books, the old Larry Sheib book, and many by David Vizard. Can never go wrong with those