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The Worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien

The Places that Inspired Middle-earth
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( 538 ratings, 112 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien by John Garth explores the various real-world inspirations behind the landscapes and settings found in Tolkien's legendary works, such as The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Delving into Tolkien's life, Garth reveals how his experiences, geographical explorations, and medieval studies influenced his fantastical realms. This book offers a compelling look at the intersections between Tolkien's imagination and the physical world.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're intrigued by the imaginative landscapes and historical contexts that influenced Tolkien's legendary works. It delves into the connections between Tolkien's creations and the real-world places and stories that inspired them, making it perfect for fans eager to explore the roots of Middle-earth and those interested in literary history.

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An exploration of Tolkien's influences by renowned expert John Garth.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Every page brings forth the elegiac tone of JRR Tolkien's work... It is a beautiful book, including many wonderful pictures by Tolkien himself... Garth's book made me realise the impact that Tolkien has had on my life. - The Times

A lavishly illustrated exploration of the places that inspired and shaped the work of J.R.R. Tolkien, creator of Middle-earth. This new book from renowned expert John Garth takes us to the places that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien to create his fictional locations in The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and other classic works.

Featuring more than 100 images, it includes Tolkien's own illustrations, contributions from other artists, archive images, maps, and spectacular present-day photographs. Inspirational locations range across Great Britain - particularly Tolkien's beloved West Midlands and Oxford - but also overseas to all points of the compass. Sources are located for Hobbiton, the elven valley of Rivendell, the Glittering Caves of Helm's Deep, and many other key spots in Middle-earth, as well as for its mountain scenery, forests, rivers, lakes, and shorelands.

A rich interplay is revealed between Tolkien's personal travels, his wide reading, and his deep scholarship as an Oxford professor. Garth uses his own profound knowledge of Tolkien's life and work to uncover the extraordinary processes of invention, to debunk popular misconceptions about the inspirations for Middle-earth, and to put forward strong new claims of his own.

Organised by theme, The Worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien is an illustrated journey into the life and imagination of one of the world's best-loved authors, an exploration of the relationship between worlds real and fantastical, and an inspiration for anyone who wants to follow in Tolkien's footsteps.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Reviews highlight that The Worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien is both a richly detailed and beautifully crafted exploration of the landscapes and influences that shaped Tolkien's imaginative works. It's praised for its depth of research and appealing presentation, with the suggestion that Tolkien himself would have appreciated its insights and aesthetics.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780711279858

Publisher: Quarto Publishing PLC

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 06 September 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Frances Lincoln

Illustration: 150+ colour

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 210.0mm

Height: 260.0mm

Weight: 500g

Pages: 208

About the Author

John Garth is the author of the award-winning Tolkien and the Great War. Based in Hampshire, Garth gives talks and teaches courses internationally, has written for many major media titles, and also works as a consultant and editor.

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