[TTBRAHWTMG]

I agree getting to know the whole Lazarus story...the general idea of long life; the Woody into Lazarus story; all of the Maureen background; the persecution of the families...getting the whole thing straight in your head is imperative to fully appreciate Lazarus in any of his minor appearances.

LotR is not a fair comparison though. That is a sequential story, and really should be read in order. NotB has many stand alone themes. Not having the Lazarus background does not impact the introduction to the World as Myth theme...has no impact on the quality of the experience of getting to know the gang, or Gay and her capabilities...and even the latter parts are readable as stand alone on a surface level. The consequence will just be a major craving for a reread once he gets to know all of that background...and understanding the late parts on a whole different level later.

Don't worry Conn...that is no spoiler.