No, read them. They shouldn't take you more than a few days to read them if you just sit down and do it. Don't cheat yourself by having someone else do it. I know, they are probably going to be some of the dumbest books in existence. Some of them, I am still trying to figure out why they feel they are so important. Kind of like that overly wordy SOB, Shakespear. The only good use for his stuff, is fuel for a fire. Just suck it up, and finish them. If you read like me, it will only take you a day and a half of pain and misery.
As for the Lord of the Rings, that is one of the few good books any instructor has ever asked me to read for a grade. Don't just watch the movies, as there were some stuff they missed. Although, read the Fellowship of the Ring and then watch the movie. They are great companions as you work yourself through the series.