When you think about it, the plots of most science fiction books tend to be very, very similar: otherwise normal person gets caught up in events that are (initially) beyond their control, and gradually becomes more powerful. This might not be the best phrasing, but it gets the idea across, I think. This is true of the Wheel of Time, Harry Potter, Eragon, many of the Xanth books, some Discworld books (although less often), and many other books that I haven't read, or don't recall. Interestingly, this pattern is more common in longer books, and series. In short books, this pattern is somewhat less common, but still noticeable. It's not very realistic, but it certainly appeals to people. It's like the American Dream: a belief that anyone, no matter what situation they begin in, can become rich, powerful, etc. It promotes the belief which most people hold at some (or most) points in their lives: that they are special, and could be powerful and rich if they put their minds to it.
I'll let you make of this statement what you will; aside from its main point, it may, perhaps, have some bearing on the direction I bring Aetuneo in, if I ever manage to get the energy/motivation together to start working on it again. I could say that I'll try to start again this month, but really, who would believe me? I know I wouldn't. There's just too much to do, especially with some new stuff I need to get done for next year.