Okay so 2 things. First, read one of the older books and not one based off the movie. Second, do NOT read the silmarillion first. It almost put me to sleep by page 2.

But one thing to keep in mind, start with the hobbit, and keep an open mind, as the story is very different from the movies and much more depth. Also... certain pesky people weren't supposed to be in the hobbit >.>"