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J. R. R. Tolkien

Author of the Century

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J. R. R. Tolkien

Written by: Tom Shippey
Narrated by: Colin Mace
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About this listen

The definitive critical study of Tolkien’s greatest works by the respected and world renowned Tolkien scholar Professor T.A. Shippey.

Following the unprecedented and universal acclaim for The Lord of the Rings, the respected academic and world-renowned Tolkien scholar, Professor Tom Shippey, presents us with a fascinating and informed companion to the world of J.R.R. Tolkien, in particular focusing on The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion.

Written in a clear and accessible style, J. R. R. Tolkien: Author of the Century reveals why all of these books will be timeless, and shows how even such complex works as The Silmarillion can be read enjoyably. Taking issue with the uninformed criticism that has often been levelled at Tolkien and fantasy in general, Professor Shippey offers a new approach to Tolkien, to fantasy and to the importance of language in literature, and demonstrates how his books form part of a live and continuing tradition of storytelling that can trace its roots back through Grimm's Fairy Tales to The Elder Edda and Beowulf.

©2011 Tom Shippey (P)2022 HarperCollins Publishers Limited Art & Literature Literature & Fiction Fantasy Fiction Storytelling
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What the critics say

"Shippey's exploration of Tolkien's themes, especially the nature of evil, is superb." (Independent)

"A timely, erudite and eminently readable book." (Evening Standard)

"Shippey's research seems limitless. He writes with unusual clarity and presents his arguments well." (Sunday Times)

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Not read by Shippey.

Excellent book, excellent content. Narrator does well but what a wasted opportunity not to have Shippey who is an incredible speaker do the narration. I’m sure he would have loved to. Definitely a wasted opportunity. Hopefully this gets redone by the author himself.

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