Newbie with a 305

OK, I know absolutely nothing about cars or engines but have this fantasy of rebuilding an old classic. A buddy who belongs to auto club recommended something easy and common - '70 something Z28 Camaro. He managed to get me a Chevy 305 small block to start out with. It was recommended to tear it apart and rebuild it. Looking for advice / resources on rebuilding engines (wouldn't mind beefing it up a bit as I go as well). Tried searching the internet for engine diagrams - was hoping to find something simple but most of it was over my head. My lovely wife did get me a Hayne's Overhaul manual to start with - should I just follow that to start? Other other books / sources anyone can recommend? Any advice at all? Thanks all!!

There are tons of books out there on how to rebuild a small block Chevy, google or get a Performance car mag. Chevy High Perforamnce is one.