Having just read both, it's really stands out how similar the basic story elements are in both
The Hobbit and
The Lord of the Rings. For example, both have the following - and in the same order:
- Start out with a carefree Hobbit in the Shire
- Given a Call to Adventure by Gandalf
- Waylaid after leaving the Shire
- Visiting Elrond in Rivendell
- Trying to go around the Misty Mountains, only to be forced back by a storm
- End up crossing through...