i'd say Eragon is inspired by LoTR not a rip-off of it.

i've read both books and they're ok, the fact that the author is young is painfully evident, especially in the first book, but they're still quite an enjoyable read.

i did find myself wondering how they would have turned out if written by someone with a bit more maturity, as i found the teenage petulance in the first book a little trying at times, words coming from adults' mouths that just would not happen in RL, but again this didn't detract from the overall story.

this kid should develop into a top class story teller as he gets a few more years beneath his belt and i shall be interested to see what he produces.