Engine Building(Rebuilding)

I'm trying to get into the engine building hobby.  I've been involved with engine building but more of the complex stuff and I'm missing the basic knowledge on what I need and what to look for.  

What I am looking for are the following:

What I need to know as a beginner,
What kits are needed? (rebuild, rotating, etc.)
What is a good beginners engine (#cyl, size, make, model, and anyother info)?

I already know that it takes specialized tools as well as very precise measurements and I have the equipment to accomplish it.

Thanks for your answer in advance  

There is one major item you will need....experiance! The more you have the better. But that will come with time. Next is tons of research. In my best opinion a great idea would be to work under a good builder for a while to get the exp. I apprenticed under a couple builders before I started for myself. For your first engine that answer is easy...the small block chevy. Start with a simple build. Read any books you can find, SA designs has some good ones as does Steve Smith Autosports. Read supplier catalogs from front to back so you'll know whats offered. Circle Track mag has thousands of great articles.  
"Remember when sex was safe and racing was dangerous?"