Assuming the starter turns ok, i would remove my distributor cap and check for any wetness, dry it w/ a cloth or hair dryer and try again.
Otherwise, start READING (you said you wanted to learn more about cars right). Start w/ basics of how a car works. Then go on to the more technical stuff. Of course you should try to do some PRACTICAL stuff if you feel confident enough. Check out the POPULAR MECHANICS website as well as LARREY CARLEY`s Automotive library and CARBIBLES website (just google them all).

patrick