[Mithalwen]

I don't read a lot of fantasy but I did read Eragon earlier in the year - partly out of curiosity regarding the author. Although I have been generally repulsed by what I perceived as Tolkien ripoffs " (Dwarf lords of Dyspepsia" kind of thing) I really enjoyed this - it isn't in Tolkiens league as far as the creation goes and it isn't as challenging as Pullman, but it is a good read - I didn't want to put it down. I was catching the train to work and I resented the short drive back from the station!!! It is derivative of Tolkien but Tolkien used myth as inspiration. He did not invent the idea of the Elves going into /coming from the West. Tuartha de Danaan anyone?

I cannot imagine getting immersed in these books like I do in Tolkien - the depth isn't there but it is a well crafted book and is clearly written and I might say gets you in to the story very quickly and he doesn't waste information. It is a much more approachable book than LOTR. I would point out that not all teenagers are avid readers and as a former teacher, I think that this would be a great book particularly for those who would find the complexity of Pullman and Tolkien to daunting and CS Lewis too old fashioned.

Just because champagne is best, it doesn't nullify the virtues of good, clean water....