The People's Guide to J.R.R. Tolkien

Author J.R.R. Tolkien created his mythical Middle-earth as the setting for his greatest works, "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit". Fantasy readers worldwide have loved both the books and the intricate magical world they inhabit. Director Peter Jackson's "Lord of the Rings" film trilogy has created an even greater awareness and curiosity about Tolkien's creation. This guide to J.R.R. Tolkien is an exploration of Tolkien's world from the writers of the Tolkien fan website, TheOneRing.net. The volume includes new articles as well as familiar favourites from the website. The essays are grouped around themes such as defending fantasy literature from the accusation of triviality; why people become Tolkien "fans"; whether Tolkien's notions of Good, Evil and Free Will are relevant to a changing world; the inspiration fans draw from his work; and the ideas from which Tolkien himself drew inspiration, both in his life and in his love of ancient literature and European myths. The volume also looks at the impact of the wildly popular cinematic version and answers the most common questions asked about Middle-earth.

All contributors are part of TheONeRing.net staff, the leading Tolkien fan website in the world. The editor of this book, Erica Challis, is a featured columnist on TheOneRing.net. She hails from New Zealand