I love the Belgariad and the Mallorean also! I wasn't quite as impressed with his other two trilogies (the Elenuim and the Tamuli) because I felt like they weren't quite as fleshed out. The characters seemed shallower. Or something.

I'm glad you're saying good things about having the same teacher. I was a little worried, but I'll defer to you in this matter. You being a teacher and all.

It's good to hear from you!