I totally agree with you about Tolkien. I tried to read the series, but I couldn't make it past the first book. I can't really put my finger on an actual reason I didn't connect, I just couldn't...maybe it was the flow or something, I have no idea and that bothers me too. (Normally I can read something and know exactly what I like or dislike about it) I haven't read Susan Cooper but I'm going to now as well as a few other series you mentioned, so thanks for the info!