Sometimes it's important to experience a bad idea so you can reinforce your own concept of a good idea.
Also, don't always take the word of a critic. I can think of scores of movies that were very poorly received by the critics, but which I enjoyed immensely. Same with books. Just keep an eye out for BS claims, and you'll be okay.
Oh, and don't worry too too much about the level of the book. The harder it is, the more you will learn. It's like practicing tennis. I'd rather play against Andre Agassi, getting my butt stomped, but get much better as a result of the incredible challange than to play against an uncordinated 2 year old who doesn't force me to try harder and improve. Sometimes an anchoring effect can be a good thing.
Cheers.
