[MNicole]

I want to read LOTR again (for the fourth time) before I read Children of Hurin. However, I can't decide whether I should read the Silmarillion before or after I read LOTR. I have only read the Silmarillion once, and it's been about 4 years since I have read LOTR. Any advice? (and what about the Hobbit? as much as I love that book, I'm thinking that it's not necessary...)

[Evil Agent]

I personally enjoy reading the Silmarillion after reading The Lord of the Rings. And if you do that, just skip the chapter on the Children of Hurin, and read that new book instead.

[sick-boy]

I've done both, and I personally prefer to read the Silmarillion first. I just usually stop when it gets to the part about the third age.
However, the Children of Hurin could throw a spoke in those wheels...