I just saw a clip from LOTR Two Towers and I never got into LOTR and now feel like I lack some culture not having read any of it. I also haven’t watched any of the movies. I tried watching The Hobbit (first movie) but I didn’t understand any of it. Maybe it’s not for me? I like sci fi but not sure about phantasy. Can you understand each book without reading them in order? How many books are there? Is it still a trilogy?
I would recommend reading The Hobbit first. The Hobbit is fast paced and entertaining the entire time. LOTR is unbelievable but slow, and the Hobbit will help you get into the universe and appreciate it.