My main problem is I don't know to much about breadboards. Also, I'm more of a visual person so reading books only takes me so far.
As waltr said, just start. As well as (or, IMHO, preferably before) the $50 robot, buy a breadboard, and some 'electronics starter kit' — they're all over eBay. Here's a link to a cheap one that'll give you all you need:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/613-Piece-Electronic-Component-Starter-Kit-k011-/350462080437?pt=UK_BOI_Electrical_Components_Supplies_ET&hash=item51992af5b5#ht_1765wt_907 (I am not affiliated in any way, but I've bought components from this seller and they're good). Make up some simple circuits — LED, voltage divider, flashing LED using a 555 timer — there are instructions all over the internet, and you can always ask for help here. BTW, a multimeter will help too. Adequate ones will cost £5 at the least, if you're on a budget.
You sound like me — you can only get so far reading books about theory, you need to actually see and do it. Good! Start building circuits — even if you end up assembling robots from pre-made parts, a knowledge of what's going on underneath will pay off bigtime.
Good luck!
Barnaby