Splash, I suggest you start with a high wing trainer and get help from an experienced flier especially in aspects of flying. Having said that, there are many excellent books for beginners from Harry Higley. On detailing, there are a couple of good books from Faye Stilley. Do a search and you'll find them. There's also a video series on scale building that I can't remember offhand, but I have it somewhere. If you need the links, let me know.