I don't think Knuth put those together expecting people to read through them like a novel. They are, however, an excellent reference when you are faced with a

I don't think Knuth put those together expecting people to read through them like a novel. They are, however, an excellent reference when you are faced with a practical algorithmic problem in a real world production situation in that they will often yield a direct solution to your headache on a platter and allow you to carry on with your day.