I am new to the world of Molecular Dynamics (zero practical experience), and I know that a starting point to really go into the back-bone of MD is Statistical Mechanics (took a semester course in undergrad, loved it, will be the focus of my PhD).

My ultimate goal is to become a developer of advanced or modern MD, such as Many-body Molecular and Quantum MD methods (e.g. Path Integral MD). Example systems I am interested in being able to model are quantum fluids and super-critical fluids.

What are some essential books I need to get and read in order to become an avid MD theoretician? Are there any must read papers I need to dedicate my weekend mornings to?