helpful sources for reading infinite jest
you're not lesser for wanting some help. with over 100 characters and a nearly impossible amount of made-up words, infinite jest is considered difficult and even pompous (disagree) for a reason.
before reading infinite jest, i believe it's imperative to have at least a basic understanding of hamlet and its themes. not only is the title of the book taken directly from the play, but several character dynamics and plot points are as well.
find more under my resources page (particularly the archived links) here.
although there are not many links here, really, the best way to read infinite jest is to simply read it. research questions you have and/or words you don't know, and reread, reread, reread.
infinite jest took me about four months to read while working an extremely busy lifestyle. i only mention this because i feel the crux of my understanding came from my binge reading--being able to recall events is helpful when you're jumping from year of the glad bag to year of the whopper and back. best of luck to all.