Obviously you can read The Hobbit and get the full story but if you already have or don't want to just now, here are Mrs. Wilson's suggestions:
The Hounds of Morrigan by Pat O'Shea
Pidge and Brigit must try and stop the Great Queen (Morrigan) from destroying the world. Not as wordy as Tolkien but an equally big adventure.
The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander
Taran is an Assistant Pig Keeper but when the magical pig Hen Wen disappears it's up to Taran to save her from the evil Horned King and discover his true destiny. Fast paced, exciting read. It includes the wonderful wonderful, ever hungry, Gurgi who speaks of crunchings and munchings.
Heroes of the Valley by Jonathan Stroud
Halli loves to hear stories of the past, when the Valley was defended by heroes against the bloodthirsty Trows. While he seems stuck being a farmer, larger forces are at work and when an old blood feud is rekindled it looks like he's going to get the adventure he's dreamed of. It's got some excellent one liners, loads of excitement but a darker side as well.
The Spook's Apprentice by Joseph Delaney
The local Spook has being keeping the County safe from evil for years but he is about to retire. Only one apprentice remains - Thomas Ward. Does he have what it takes to be a Spook? A more horror fantasy than the others on the list it's fast paced and totally enthralling.
Blart: The Boy Who didn't want to save the World by Dominic Barker
Blart has a destiny - he must stop the evil Zoltab - but he's much rather stay at home and look after his grandfather's pigs than save mankind. If you fancy more of a funny quest story this is the books for you. It's a charming, exciting and most importantly funny read.
Muddle Earth by Paul Stewart and Chris Riddell
Sinister villain Dr.Cuddles is out to destroy Muddle Earth. It's up to Joe Jefferson (a regular boy) to try and stop him. He has the Wellies of power, the Woolly Gloves of Determination and a saucepan for a helmet. Clearly Dr.Cuddles will be quaking in his lair. This hilarious series is a bit of a parody of Tolkien but it is so much more. Entertaining, funny and wonderfully imaginative.
The Princess Bride by William Goldman
When Westley goes to make his fortune he is caputured by the Dread Pirate Roberts who leaves no surviors. His true love Buttercup gives him up for dead and tries to move on. Prince Humperdink (a not very nice man) decides to make Buttercup his wife but just before the wedding Buttercup is kidnapped by a mysterious man in black. Is Westley really dead? Will Buttercup have to marry Humperdink? What are the dangers of the fire swap? Plus poison,l revenge, giants, miracles and ROUS (rodents of unusual size). A swashbucking, funny and thrilling read.
