Step 1: Get a subscription to something like Hotrod magazine.
Step 1a: If the cover says "Motor Trend", you got the wrong one. They don't know enough to tell you anything.
Step 2: look at more than just the pictures. Notice that the magazine has text.
By now, you should atleast have a vauge recollection of what the internals in an engine consist of. And they usually have an occasional column along the lines of "what the f' are we saying" to help you understand what the terms are.
Note that just because an engine is 80 years old, lacks fuel injection, and doesn't have variable valve timing, they operate on the same basic principle.
Also, read up on failed technologies. They often provide insight on why we use what we use. (ie: why don't cars have turbines?)
Some local fairs have awesome engine exhibits. Amador County in California has a killer one that has antique engines actually running. Dozens of them. Many of them you can actually see the parts move. This is a killer deal if you get the chance. (ever see a 10HP engine larger than most SUVs?)
When you see a cutaway picture, look at how things are put together. They'll tell you alot.