Well, if you want to build a motor, go down to the local tuner shop and tell them you want to apprentice and learn what to do, what the internal parts are, what they do, etcetera and THEN you can think about putting one together. I am in the process of a tear down/rebuild on an old block just so that I can say I did it. I don't think I'll ever put it in a car, but I can take it back to the guy at the shop and ask him how my work is coming along. It's on an engine stand inside and we do a little bit each time I'm there. He gives me tips and shows me what to do next. After that I think I'll work on something that's actually going into my own car.
Helm's is good, but it won't give you what someone with years of experience can. Guidance.