What is a good place to start learning about pulse jets?
You could try this website on home made pulse jets looks like it has some good info. These guys are selling some plans and have info as well. Here is an interesting instructables... And here is another DIY one. You may also be able to dig up some of the work that was done with them during WWII with a bit of directed searching on some public archives (as it may be more or less public record now). Of course physics and engineering text books will always be of help but there may not be any pulse jet specific ones. 

PSA: You should take extreme caution when building and testing something like this. You will presumably be burning jet fuel (or another comburent) in a home made combustion chamber which can lead to very bad things. Care should always be taken when firing up an engine (of any kinda) for the first time. Welds should be double checked, metal choice is important and please wear safety goggles!