Unreal Engine 4 Shaders and Effects Cookbook benefits from a structure that goes in crescendo, covering more difficult topics as we move along together. Thus, the book lends itself to being read by multiple different profiles of user from novice users, to more seasoned ones that haven't yet touched Unreal's material pipeline. Whatever the case, a good understanding of Unreal is definitely a plus, and something that will make your journey throughout this book a much smoother experience.