I was fortunate enough to have a grandmother who not only encouraged reading, but truly understood what I might find interesting, and challenged me always. She bought me
The Hobbit at 7 yrs, and
The Simarillion for Christmas when I was 9. I've read them, and the countless others I received from her, over and again ever since. (going-on 30 years
)
An incredible woman, to whom I am eternally grateful.