It took me like four tries, too. In the end, I came around to the idea that the book is written as if none of this stuff is out of the ordinary. It was really the stuff about the fairy world that captured me, the enchanting danger it represents and the idea that it's hidden around corners everywhere. I'm glad it finally got you, Sandy. The TV show is pretty great as well and doesn't drag as much, if you ever get the time to watch it.