My friend,

Let us take it one thing at a time and not be overwhelmed. I would like for you to get a good English-Arabic dictionary like المغني and also purchase "Avanced Learners' English Dictionary". I would use both while looking up a word. If you want to ask me about how to pronounce a certain word, I would be glad to help. That is what I am here for. Regarding some good reading, I can't think of anything better than the works of Anatole France here:

http://www.blackmask.com/olbooks/thais.htm

Please take your time to read and enjoy. Please keep me posted.
All the best.

Ibrahim

(f)