The first Suzuki book 1 is pretty easy. The second one doesn't seem that bad to me either, just not something that can hold my attention. I think it's because they're geared to people who are also learning how to read music for the first time. I've been using the exercises to perfect technique and posture, then playing other pieces that I like when they get too boring. While I can play through the music, mastering things like stretching my 4th finger, bow management, different bowing styles, and hitting all of the bell notes on each piece makes it a lot more interesting.