The constellations are not those tiny little squiggles that you might see on a small planisphere, but are huge, gigantic, awesome. Also, there are other stars which confuse your viewing, and the constellations often seem to intermingle with each other so as to perplex the observer. When you think you know what you are doing, later on in the evening you will have quite a different view of the sky and will need to start all over again, looking for the original constellations with which you began the night. Many of them will have disappeared completely. Do not give up.
Success is just around the corner.
Be thankful for small improvements. These books are only a beginning. They are good for all neophytes and will help you learn how to find some of the things you are hankering for. If it does not take 1001 nights, then everything is a big plus. Soon you may be up and running, attending the Messier Marathons which challenge many an amateur astronomer.