When I graduated college (2010), I finally had the time I needed for a good novel. I decided I might as well start reading some Tolkien. My sister had the boxed set since a little before the movies came out but I never bothered to touch it until recently. I started with The Hobbit, followed by LOTR.
Favorite Tolkien character:
So many wonderful characters but if I had to pick one, it would be Faramir. Even before I read the books, I was amazed at his emotional strength. I'm not sure if I would do as well if I had it as rough as him. It also helps that he's easy on the eyes.