I am a 58 year old grandmother of 9, and my 13 year old granddaughter turned me on to this series of books. Once I read the first chapter of the first book, I was hooked! So, we were there last night for the official opening of the movie, and I was thrilled with it! But, I do have to agree that unless you read the book first, you will miss so much! The scenery is awesome! The chemistry of the actors is fantastic! It is just a wonderful movie to escape to!