So, I found the abridged version of 'The Hobbit', and sure enough, I enjoyed this book. Perhaps it was because I had seen much of the story explained by the main character in 'Lord of the Rings', and I always enjoy having back-story explained. I'm not sure though.

Tolkien does paint an amazingly detailed universe, full of many different creatures. This is basically the story of a Hobbit, who for no good reason, goes on an adventure to find ancient lost gold, protected by an ancient dragon. Of course, at the end, the main character manages to find the dragon's Achilles' heal, which I don't much care for, but otherwise it's a fun story.