The Curious Curator's Book Blog

I was 13 when I first read The Lord of the Rings. Over the years I would re-read the entire series, as well as all other books on Middle-Earth that I could find. When I saw that they were making a movie based on The Fellowship of the Ring, I was ecstatic. I re-watched the entire trilogy many, many times. So, perhaps more than any other writer, J.R.R. Tolkien and his creations have been a constant companion in my life, helping shape me into the person I am today.

So I was happy to read this book, which is a short biography of Tolkien, following his life from his birth in South Africa, to the English countryside, to Oxford university and his love for languages (and how it nearly ruined his academic career before it even started), to the Inklings, religion, war, friendship and love, and how it all inspired the creation of Middle-Earth.

This is a fascinating story of creation, and a good introduction to the life of one of the most inspirational and influential writers in the world.

Note: I got this book for review purposes through NetGalley.