That said, when asked "How to learn about animal paleontology ?" I allways mention Micheal Benton, Vertebrate Paleontology. It needs a basic understanding of geoscience, evolution and skeleton anatomy. Functional morphology, phylogeny and an overview over sediment geology and earth history also won't harm, but you could give it a try. Some things are explained in between.

I'd recommend to at least get a good introduction and overview into geology, in form of one or two books on the matter. Maybe a colleague knows other good books on the subject. Actually, I'd like to update my bookshelf myself :-)

Also, Museums of Natural History have publications that could interest you, but best would probably to sacrifice some time, visit them and then browse their book shops. Depending on your time and where you are.