If you want to read something that puts complex aerodynamic theories into thoroughly simple, very easy to understand text, with good 'at a glance' diagrams, get a copy from Amazon of:
Mechanics of Flight by D.R. Philpott, A.C. Kermode, and R.H. Barnard (
Paperback - 14 Jun 2006)
It is a truly excellent book, the sort that any novice can read easily and get a very firm grasp of the basics from of basic aerodynamics (including differences between subsonic, transonic and supersonic flow and flight effects), effects of controls, forms of propulsion, the atmosphere....the lot.
I used the original version by A C Kermode only all the way through university and flying training, and still refer to it now.