T. A. Shippey

Analyzes Tolkien's "The Hobbit," "The Lord of the Rings," "The Silmarillion," and his lesser works, and explains how his works tie into storytelling tradition dating back to Grimms' fairy tales and "Beowulf."

Author of the Century

J.R.R. Tolkien

Michael Springer

A lot of interesting stuff going on in here, and this book made it clearer to me just how complex Tolkien's vision of Middle Earth was. For any fan of LOTR, this is a good read. 

That said, the title is silly. What the shit does it mean to be "author of the century"? I was left unconvinced after finishing the book. Tolkien has made a contribution that created its own GENRE, and there's definitely something to be said for that. And the books have stood the test of time pretty well, say what you may about the characters and "Concerning Hobbits." Although it's lots of fun to sit around and debate what the best whatever (punk album from 1979, Marvel super hero, Greek deity, extra value meal) is, it's so subjective. 

Anyway, lots of details about Tolkien's inspirations, earlier incarnations of characters, and details about how the languages of Middle Earth were developed that will blow your mind. It's trippy.

Charles Siboto

Tolkien is my literary addiction and the world he created feels like home. Professor Shippey's exploration of Tolkien as author of the 20th Century is a delight to read because he is clearly a fan and at the same time not a 'fanboy'. His exploration is thorough, academic and well-written. Lots of people would probably find it boring though.

J.R.R. Tolkien Author of the Century

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