Reddit reviews Blueprint Reading Basics

Two books that I've seen mentioned other places are Audel Basic Machine Shop, which gives an overview on various machines, what they do, etc.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/076455526X/ref=pd_aw_sims_3?pi=SL500_SY115&simLd=1

The next is basic blue print reading. Self explanatory.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/083113125X?pc_redir=1411016091&robot_redir=1
An aptitude for math and geometry is certainly a plus as well.

I personally haven't used either but they have great reviews. I do use peter smid's cnc programming textbook in shop quite often. My dad used to let me mill on wood with dull tools when I was a kid to learn the basics and principals. Grooming me for the family business if you will lol.
As far as moving up, just show the imitative and a willingness to learn. Community college classes can teach you a lot. Our industry is experiencing growth as far as need, and guys in our age bracket aren't interested in the work. As someone said, learning the maitence on the machines is a good first step. Be vocal about your desire to become a machinist but be courteous too.