The first fantasy epic that I read was The Lord of the Ring trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien. His world, called Middle Earth, is rich in history and stories. I still measure elves and dwarves that I meet in my readings to the Tolkien standard.
Links
-
The Official J. R. R. Tolkien Book Shop
-
The Tolkien Society
A literary society and worldwide fan club devoted to promoting the life and works of J.R.R. Tolkien.