[Bear_in_RoseBear]

What I find interesting is that the books grew in sophistication as her original readership grew in age. I don't know if she intended it that way, or if it was just a coincidence as she grew in writing ability, but it meant that the original readership could be challenged by each book as it came out.

Unfortunately I think that may make it difficult for new readers to get into the series. Young readers will find the later books too challenging, while older readers will find the early books too simplistic.

[caseinpoint]

“Unfortunately I think that may make it difficult for new readers to get into the series. Young readers will find the later books too challenging, while older readers will find the early books too simplistic.”

FWIW, I read the books for the first time within the past month and I am an older (50+) reader. I had seen the first four movies so maybe it helped but I had no trouble getting into the characters, nor did I feel turned off by the earlier books. I knew it was a series and answers would come later. I bought the books for my own summer reading break and I figured it would be nice to have them on hand for my someday grandchildren (my kids are only 20 and 21). I think they will come in handy eventually.