I tried these; they were nothing to write home about. Not a lot of flavor, actually...

Many aspects of both these stories (and Star Wars, and lots of others) are typical characteristics of hero/quest tales. A difficult task/journey; good vs. evil; orphaned, unlikely hero; wise mentor; loyal sidekicks...the list goes on.

It's illegal in Louisiana, too. As a teacher, I've had lots of friend requests from students, but I always turn them down. However, I know lots of teachers who don't. It's just too risky for me! All it takes to ruin a career an accusation, and facebook would make it all too easy for a student to bolster a false claim.