To anyone who has ever read fantasy, J.R.R. Tolkien needs no introduction.  In fact, Tolkien is almost a household word even to those who have NEVER read any other work of fantasy.  His tales of Middle Earth in many ways began the entire genre of fantasy.  If you have never read any other fantasy, Tolkien is the place to start.

• The Hobbit or There and Back Again
• The Fellowship of the Ring
• The Two Towers
• The Return of the King