Books I’ve Read in 2018 [Christmas wrap-up]

It has become an annual tradition of sorts on this blog to post a list of books I have read in the last twelve months. This might perhaps provide some inspirational reading ideas for you, dear readers.

Besides, I think it’s the perfect opportunity for me to take a moment, stand back, and admire the books I have consumed (not literally).

“The Shadows Where the Mewlips [really] dwell” – Mapping the road to Mordor?

I’m chuffed by the eager response asking me to post the paper I presented at this year’s Oxonmoot. Well, here it is in full (with a few additional notes) for your enjoyment, if such be its fate.

What $800 may buy you in Middle-earth products

Given the recent outcry at the $800 price tag for the Middle-earth Limited Collector’s Edition, and inspired by TheOneRing.net’s recent Facebook post, I thought it would be fun to see what $800 may buy you in Middle-earth products.

Bear in mind that this is just a very selective list and may include other items that have been overseen. Prices are also based on approximations.

So, imagine you have $800 in your hand, or next to you and you’re ready to splurge on Middle-earth. Instead of choosing the Limited Collector’s Edition, you decide to purchase one of the following bundles …

Approaching Tolkien: Tales from the Perilous Realm

Wondering through the enchanted paths of Middle-earth and the lands of Faërie …

Tales from the Perilous Realm is a collection of four independent works written by J.R.R. Tolkien. Whilst exploring Tolkien’s style of writing in different lands other than those of Middle-earth, it is interesting to see how these short works inspired or, in turn, were influenced by the author’s more famous works.

The following post shall briefly tackle each major work; outlining the general storyline/content and providing some reflections on each of them and their context within Tolkien’s other work.

My Tolkien Collection: Deluxe Editions

– Turning good stories into classics … physically, at least

There’s something intrinsically beautiful and magical about a Deluxe edition book being slowly extracted from its matching slipcase – none the least when that book has Tolkien’s motif embossed in gold at the back and the appropriate design on the front.

My Tolkien Collection: An Introduction

– Nothing to show off, just ‘displaying’ …

At this stage in the blog, with Tolkien Week fast approaching, and after writing (and blabbing to myself) about the books, analyzing images and films  and retelling my discovery of such a hobby, I thought it the right time for me to guide you through my personal Tolkien-centric collection.