I remember reading "The Guadalcanal Diary", as well as "The Grim Reapers". Both gave the impression that initially, the Japanese resistance was weak, but was thereafter gradually built up.

One quote I remember from the book was when an American was interviewed about the Japanese reinforcement effort, his reply kinda summed it all up: "If the Japs can keep from crying, we'll do our best too keep them from laughing"

Interesting thread.