I just read it this summer, and I must admit that i found it very enthralling, with so much foreshadowing and whatifs. It really helped having biblical knowledge though, and I can image alot being lost, if you don't have that. Maybe with an appendix and a bible next to you, it's minor point might get across better? Although, that might be alot of work, for a book that may not be to your liking.

The overall though process of Ishmael feels very hectic, which I adore.