Here's why:
* The series has a continuous plot: While each book features a separate mission, the series as a whole builds upon previous events, character relationships, and overall story arcs.
* Character development: Reading the books in order allows you to witness Alex Rider's growth and evolution as a spy.
* Backstory and world-building: Subsequent books reveal information about Alex's past, the organization he works for, and the world of espionage.
However, if you're really eager to jump into a particular book and don't mind spoilers, you can certainly read them out of order. Just be prepared for some potential confusion about character relationships and plot points.
Here are some options:
* Start at the beginning: This is the best way to experience the series fully and avoid any potential spoilers or confusion.
* Choose a specific book based on the synopsis: If you're interested in a specific topic or type of mission, you can look up synopses and choose a book that interests you.
* Read a "starter guide": Some websites or blogs provide summaries of previous books to help you understand the context of the one you're reading.
Ultimately, the choice is yours! But if you want the most satisfying and complete experience, reading the Alex Rider books in order is the way to go.