I used to read these books and they were pretty great actually
https://www.amazon.com/Cartoon-Guide-Chemistry-Larry-Gonick/dp/0060936770
For understanding the basics, you can try books or other resources that are directed to the general public. It worked for me. They are entertaining, which is also better for learning because you will spend more time.
Examples: https://www.amazon.com/Cartoon-Guide-Chemistry-Larry-Gonick/dp/0060936770 https://1lib.eu/s/A%20Short%20History%20of%20Chemistry
Cartoon Chemistry is a good one.
Read Larry Gonick's Cartoon Guide to Chemistry like I did! You'll learn as much as a high school level course. www.amazon.com/Cartoon-Guide-Chemistry-Larry-Gonick/dp/0060936770