100,000+ Books, Games & Puzzles in-stock 🇳🇿

Enjoy overnight NZ-wide delivery from our NZ-owned independent bookstore! 🎉

Leaf by Niggle

By J. R. R. Tolkien
0.0 (0 reviews)
4.26 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating. ( 8,229 ratings, 829 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
Leaf by Niggle by J. R. R. Tolkien is an enchanting story about an artist named Niggle, who struggles to complete a singular painting of a leaf while preparing for a mysterious journey. The narrative explores themes of creativity, the constraints of time, and the importance of selflessness and community in one's life journey, all wrapped in a reflective and thought-provoking tale. It's a beautifully crafted allegory that resonates with universal human experiences.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$1400
Elsewhere:
$1499
OVERNIGHT NZ-WIDE DELIVERY

Found a better price? Request a price match

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?

This tale may appeal to you if you enjoy allegorical stories that explore themes of creativity, purpose, and personal growth. It's a reflective journey of a character grappling with his art and responsibilities, set within an imaginative world crafted with Tolkien's masterful storytelling. Perfect for those who appreciate a blend of fantasy and philosophical introspection.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Published for the very first time in its own volume, Tolkien’s remarkable tale about a painter whose obsession with detail prevents him from finishing his great work.

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

Published for the very first time in its own volume, Tolkien’s remarkable tale about a painter whose obsession with detail prevents him from finishing his great work.

Leaf by Niggle is the story of Niggle, a painter. Not a very successful one, partly because he has so many other things to do. For some time, he has been obsessed with one particular canvas – a curious picture of a tree with a vast landscape stretching out behind it. The painting keeps getting bigger and bigger, but Niggle has a journey to make.

In 1939, Tolkien was despairing of ever bringing his great work, The Lord of the Rings, to a conclusion. One morning he woke up with the story Leaf by Niggle complete in his mind and wrote it down. This poignant story about an artist on a curious journey is often seen as an allegory of the writer’s own creative process and life.

Published to coincide with a new touring stage production of the story, this is the first time the story has been published in its own volume, enabling readers to savour one of Tolkien’s most elegant, haunting, and least-known short stories.

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?

Leaf by Niggle is praised for its ability to expand the reader's imagination, much like a small acorn growing into a towering oak. The Times highlights its thought-provoking nature, while The Herald appreciates its exploration of complex themes like truth and beauty. The New York Times acknowledges its haunting charm and successful embodiment of faerie qualities.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780008205539

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 28 July 2016

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: HarperCollins

Audience: Teenage

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 5.0mm

Width: 111.0mm

Height: 178.0mm

Weight: 60g

Pages: 64

Collections

2025 Best Sellers Best Sellers at Book Hero Classic Fiction Classic General Fiction Fantasy Fiction General Fiction In Stock Books In-Stock Fiction Books J. R. R. Tolkien Literary Fiction New Release Fiction Sci-Fi & Fantasy Young Adult

About the Author

J.R.R.Tolkien (1892-1973) was a distinguished academic, though he is best known for writing The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion, plus other stories and essays. His books have been translated into over 60 languages and have sold many millions of copies worldwide.

Also by J. R. R. Tolkien

View all
  • The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings Boxed Set
    Embark on a journey through Middle-earth with J.R.R. Tolkien's timeless masterpieces, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. These enthralling tales recount the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, a modest hobbit whose life is turned upside down when he unwittingly becomes entwined in a perilous quest involving dragons, wizards, and the fate of the world. Alongside iconic characters such as...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Box Set
    $7199
    Elsewhere:
    $8999
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Lord of the Rings
    Tim's Pick
    The Lord of the Rings
    Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Middle-earth with The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien, a timeless epic that has captivated readers for generations. This monumental tale follows the journey of a young hobbit, Frodo Baggins, who inherits a seemingly innocent magical ring. However, the ring possesses dark secrets and immense power, and must be destroyed...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Hardback
    $8799
    Elsewhere:
    $17000
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Hobbit
    The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien's timeless fantasy masterpiece, returns in a new paperback edition. This enchanting tale transports readers to a world of high adventure, where a company of dwarves embarks on a perilous journey to reclaim their homeland and the dragon-guarded treasure within. Joining them is the unlikeliest of heroes: Bilbo Baggins, a comfort-loving and unambitious hobbit from the quaint...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Paperback
    $1700
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Colour Illustrated Hobbit
    The Colour Illustrated Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien is a timeless classic that has enchanted readers for generations. This beloved tale follows Bilbo Baggins, a peace-loving hobbit from the quaint and picturesque Shire, who finds himself thrust into an epic journey far from the comforts of his cosy home. Charming and lively illustrations by Jemima Catlin breathe new life...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Paperback
    $2700
    Elsewhere:
    $2999
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Hobbit Classic Hardback
    The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien is a timeless story that captures the imagination of readers of all ages. Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit of the Shire, enjoys a quiet, uneventful life in his cozy home at Bag End. He has no inclination to seek adventure or explore the world beyond his familiar surroundings. However, destiny has other plans for...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Hardback
    $4000
    Elsewhere:
    $4500
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Silmarillion
    Special unjacketed hardback edition of the prelude to J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings. This edition of The Silmarillion features the complete work with a unique cover design and black and red endpaper maps. The Silmarillion is an account of the Elder Days, of the First Age of Tolkien’s World. It is the ancient drama to which...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Hardback
    $3900
    Elsewhere:
    $4299
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Silmarillion
    The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien is the epic forerunner to the acclaimed The Lord of the Rings trilogy, providing a rich tapestry of the mythological history of Middle-earth. Delving into the ancient past, it recounts the stirring events of the First and Second Ages and introduces some of the key characters who will later be pivotal in Tolkien's world, such...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Paperback
    $2200
    Elsewhere:
    $2499
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Bovadium Fragments
    World first publication of a previously unknown short satirical fantasy by J.R.R. Tolkien, edited by his son, Christopher Tolkien, and accompanied by illustrations from the author together with an essay, The Origin of Bovadium, by Richard Ovenden OBE. As Christopher Tolkien notes in his Introduction, The Bovadium Fragments was a ‘satirical fantasy’ written by his father, which grew out of...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Hardback
    $3600
    Elsewhere:
    $4500
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Hobbit
    The first new illustrated edition of The Hobbit for more than 15 years contains 150 brand new colour illustrations. Artist Jemima Catlin’s charming and lively interpretation brings Tolkien’s beloved characters to life in a way that will entice and entertain a new generation of readers. Bilbo Baggins is a hobbit who enjoys a comfortable and quiet life. His contentment is...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Hardback
    $4500
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Lord of the Rings Boxed Set
    The Lord of the Rings Boxed Set
    Begin your journey into Middle-earth. A New Legend Begins on Prime Video, in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. Sauron, the Dark Lord, has gathered to him all the Rings of Power – the means by which he intends to rule Middle-earth. All he lacks in his plans for dominion is the One Ring – the ring...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Set
    $6500
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Hobbit
    The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien is a timeless fantasy novel that serves as a prelude to the epic The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Set in Middle-earth, it follows the extraordinary journey of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who prefers the comforts of home to the excitement of adventure. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when the wizard...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Hardback
    $5500
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Hobbit
    Special collector’s film tie-in hardback of the best-selling classic, featuring the complete story with a sumptuous cover design inspired by The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey and brand new reproductions of all the drawings and maps by J.R.R. Tolkien. Bilbo Baggins is a hobbit who enjoys a comfortable, unambitious life, rarely travelling further than the pantry of his hobbit-hole in Bag...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Hardback
    $3200
    Elsewhere:
    $3499
    In Stock
    Ships today

More from Sci-Fi & Fantasy

View all
  • The Strength of the Few
    The highly anticipated follow-up to The Will of the Many—one of 2023's most lauded and bestselling fantasy novels. The Hierarchy still call me Vis Telimus. They still, as one, believe they know who I am. But with all that has happened—with what I fear is coming—I am not sure it matters anymore. I am no longer one. I won the...
    By James Islington
    Paperback
    $2899
    Elsewhere:
    $3800
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Project Hail Mary
    Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir, the SUNDAY TIMES and NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of The Martian, offers a gripping new adventure in hard science fiction. With endorsement from notable figures such as Barack Obama and a slew of five-star reviews, this novel promises a thrilling and intellectually stimulating journey. Ryland Grace, a lone astronaut, finds himself on a...
    By Andy Weir
    Paperback
    $2399
    Elsewhere:
    $2400
    (4)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Red Rising
    The first book in the incredible New York Times bestselling series Darrow is a Helldiver, toiling beneath the surface of Mars. As a member of the Red caste, he performs grueling labor in the belief that his sacrifice will enable future generations to one day inhabit the surface of the Red Planet. The Reds are humankind's lowest caste, living in...
    By Pierce Brown
    Paperback
    $2200
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Crossroads of Ravens
    THE GLOBAL PHENOMENON RETURNS... Every legend has an origin - and Geralt of Rivia's begins here. In this brand-new chapter of Andrzej Sapkowski's Witcher series, follow Geralt in his earliest days as a Witcher, as he faces monsters and humans alike. Discover the untold stories and encounters that shaped the iconic character known today. Crossroads of Ravens brings readers into...
    By Andrzej Sapkowski
    Paperback
    $2899
    Elsewhere:
    $3799
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Will of the Many
    Phenomenal! One of the best high fantasy novels I've read in years—think Red Rising meets The Name of the Wind. I couldn't put it down. - LYNETTE NONI This new edition of book one in the Hierarchy series features never-before-seen bonus materials, including a full-colour map by the author, a note to the reader, and new cover art. AUDI. VICE....
    By James Islington
    Paperback
    $2999
    Elsewhere:
    $3800
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Wind and Truth
    The long-awaited explosive climax to the first arc of the Number One New York Times bestselling Stormlight Archive. Wind and Truth by Brandon Sanderson sees Dalinar Kholin challenge the evil god Odium to a contest of champions with the future of Roshar on the line. The Knights Radiant have only ten days to prepare, and the sudden ascension of the...
    By Brandon Sanderson
    Paperback
    $3100
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Ministry of Time
    One of the 18 best novels of the year for the Sunday Times A book of the year for the New York Times, Guardian, Independent, Evening Standard, Spectator, Red, NPR, Vanity Fair, People, Slate, Advocate, Sydney Morning Herald, Globe and Mail, Den of Geek, Good Housekeeping, Goodreads, NetGalley and Smithsonian Magazine 'A sparkling delight' Observer 'Make room on your bookshelves...
    By Kaliane Bradley
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    (2)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Assassin’s Apprentice
    Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb marks the beginning of an extraordinary adventure in the rich and immersive world of the Six Duchies. Set against the backdrop of a kingdom teetering on the brink of civil war, this gripping tale introduces readers to FitzChivalry Farseer, a royal bastard whose existence threatens the stability of the crown. When the crown prince's secret...
    By Robin Hobb
    Paperback
    $1900
    Elsewhere:
    $2299
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • I Who Have Never Known Men
    A haunting, heartbreaking tale of female friendship and intimacy that evokes the chilling atmospheres of The Handmaid's Tale and the desolate landscapes of The Road, I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman is a story that lingers long after the last page is turned. This gripping narrative takes us deep underground, where thirty-nine women are held in isolation...
    By Jacqueline Harpman
    Paperback
    $2800
    Elsewhere:
    $3299
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Colour Illustrated Hobbit
    The Colour Illustrated Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien is a timeless classic that has enchanted readers for generations. This beloved tale follows Bilbo Baggins, a peace-loving hobbit from the quaint and picturesque Shire, who finds himself thrust into an epic journey far from the comforts of his cosy home. Charming and lively illustrations by Jemima Catlin breathe new life...
    By J. R. R. Tolkien
    Paperback
    $2700
    Elsewhere:
    $2999
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Blood Over Bright Haven
    A riveting dark academia fantasy about the limits of truth and power, from the author of The Sword of Kaigen. The first woman ever admitted to a prestigious order of mages unravels a secret conspiracy that could change the practice of magic forever, in this standalone dark fantasy from the author of The Sword of Kaigen. For twenty years, Sciona...
    By M. L. Wang
    Paperback
    $3400
    Elsewhere:
    $3800
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Great Dune Trilogy
    Frank Herbert's The Great Dune Trilogy plunges readers into an evocative and grandiose saga set on the desert planet of Arrakis. This richly detailed landscape becomes the focal point for a complex tapestry of political intrigue, military conflict, and galaxy-wide repercussions. Arrakis, also known as Dune, is the sole source of the spice melange, a valuable and highly sought-after substance...
    By Frank Herbert
    Paperback
    $3900
    Elsewhere:
    $4499
    In Stock
    Ships today

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 100,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.

Sci-Fi & Fantasy lists from the team

Explore our curated lists from our heroes to find your next read!

The Latest at Book Hero

View all